The Superfluous Man (Russian: «лишний человек») is a 19th century Russian literary concept. It relates to an inividual, possibly of talent and capability, who does not fit into the state-centered pattern of employment. Often the individual is born into the upper class and is rich and affluent. He may pursue a military career and can often be seen as a fatalist. This is supported by the fact that superfluous men participate in duels and chances of fate such as gambling. Their actions can be attributed to their self destructive nature and their disregard for the social values and standards of the time. The consequence is a man who is filled with ennui, often causing distress to whatever occupies his attention which is often members of the opposite sex.