'The Idiot' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky follows the story of Prince Myshkin, a character described as kind and good-hearted, who struggles to navigate the cynicism and complexities of the world around him. The book delves into themes of innocence, altruism, and the clash between purity and the selfishness of society. The plot is characterized by intricate storylines, philosophical dialogues, and intense character development, set against the backdrop of Russian high society in the 19th century. The writing style is praised for its elegance, character descriptions, and the ability to evoke strong emotions in readers.

Characters:

The characters are complex and multifaceted, with Prince Myshkin's naivety contrasted against the darker traits of society, specifically seen in Nastasya and Aglaya.

Writing/Prose:

Dostoevsky's style includes deep psychological exploration and intricate character interactions, often reflecting on moral and philosophical themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around Prince Myshkin's struggles as a kind-hearted individual navigating the cruel society of 19th-century Russia.

Setting:

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century St. Petersburg, the story explores the intricate social tapestry of Russian aristocracy.

Pacing:

While the pacing fluctuates between slow, contemplative segments and intense dramatic moments, it largely reflects a more introspective narrative style.

Towards the end of November, during a thaw, at nine o'clock one morning, a train on the Warsaw and Petersburg railway was approaching the latter city at full speed. The morning was so damp and misty t...

Notes:

In The Idiot, the protagonist Prince Myshkin is often seen as a Christ-like figure, embodying innocence and moral goodness.

Dostoevsky wrote The Idiot while struggling with personal issues, including financial troubles and the death of his first child.

The novel is known for its deep psychological insights into the characters and their motivations, reflecting Dostoevsky's own understanding of human nature.

The phrase "beauty will save the world" is famously quoted from this novel, though it appears in a nuanced context.

The book is structured around lengthy dialogues and dramatic social scenes, often leading to deep philosophical discussions rather than traditional plot progression.

One of the major themes is the conflict between Myshkin's purity and the moral corruption of the society around him.

The Idiot is considered one of Dostoevsky's more personal works, reflecting his thoughts on virtue, love, and suffering in a corrupt world.

The title character is perceived as an idiot due to his open and honest nature, which contrasts sharply with the deceitful behavior of those around him.

Dostoevsky himself struggled with epilepsy, which he incorporated into Myshkin’s character, creating a unique lens through which to explore societal issues.

The novel's setting in St. Petersburg highlights the stark contrasts between various social classes during Dostoevsky's time.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Potential triggers include discussions of mental illness, suicide, abuse, and social critique that may evoke feelings of distress.

Has Romance?

The novel features a significant amount of romantic entanglement, primarily focusing on Prince Myshkin's relationships with Nastasya Filipovna and Aglaya Epanchina.

From The Publisher:

A classic by a Russian master

Prince Myshkin, the idiot, is an almost comically innocent Christ figure in a land of sinners, one whose faith in beauty contrasts sharply with that of his society's.

Ratings (40)

Incredible (9)
Loved It (18)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (7)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (127):

Read It (43)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (74)
Did Not Finish (3)
Not Interested (6)

1 comment(s)

Carissa

It Was OK

3 months

3.5*

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About the Author:

Fyodor Dostoyevsky (1821-1881), one of nineteenth-century Russia's greatest novelists, spent four years in a convict prison in Siberia, after which he was obliged to enlist in the army. In later years his penchant for gambling sent him deeply into debt. Most…

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The Idiot

Fyodor Dostoyevsky