The novel evolved and expanded from an 1849 short story or sketch entitled Oblomovs Dream. The novel focuses on the midlife crisis of the main character, Ilya Ilyich Oblomov, an upper middle class son of a member of Russias nineteenth century landed gentry. Oblomovs distinguishing characteristic is his slothful attitude towards life. While a common negative characteristic, Oblomov raises this trait to an art form, conducting his little daily business apathetically from his bed.