Displays the fruits of aristocracy Paul uses his appearance as a subtle, unspoken reminder of what his generation has accomplished. .
Bazarov is seen throughout the story as the leader of the new generation, inspiring an entire revival of the Russian political, economic, and social system. Characterized through his liberalistic views, which are explained by his theory and belief of nihilism. This is shown during his argument with Paul Petrovich in which he states, "In these days, negation is the most useful thing of all and so we deny." The denial of every aspect of a culture is strikingly liberally even today. Furthermore, Bazarov outwardly displays an image of humbleness while inwardly he assumes an air of superiority over everyone around him. This is seen with his statement, "Ask any of your peasants in which of us - in you or me - he would sooner recognize a compatriot." Which is negated through his actual demeanor towards the peasants of Russia in "Get on with it, you bush-beard!".
The contrast in the characterizations of Paul and Bazarov because of the generation gap cause the conflict between them. Paul feels that Bazarov is a threat to his way of life. Bazarov is attempting to destroy the aristocracy in which Paul is so deeply entrenched. His nihilistic views are shown in the argument between them. Paul's firmly rooted belief in the superiority of his generation is clearly seen in, "I am convinced that you and I are much more in the right than these little gentlemen, even though we may express ourselves in somewhat out-of-date, vielli language, and may lack their impudence and self-assurance." Paul much like his mother faced with the overtaking of his generation attacks the easy targets of unproven ideas and the boldness of youth.
The conflict between Bazarov and Paul Petrovich is furthered through their feelings toward Fenichka. Paul Petrovich is secretly and deeply in love with Fenichka.