Fyodor Dostoevsky is one of the biggest authors in literature. The Russian intellect is the author of some of the most brilliant works of the 19th century.
Dostoevsky’s work consists of human psychological ideas and their interactions with the new and consistently evolving modern world. However, being a religious person, Dostoevsky tries to answer modern questions with his faith and showcasing its importance in his stories.
Throughout his life, Fyodor published around thirteen novels, seven short stories three novellas and numerous short stories. His works like Crime and Punishment became a notable name in the literature.
However, it’s his work like Brother’s Karamazov which is considered to be the greatest book ever written by many readers.
Key Highlights
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- Many of Dostoesky’s works comprise of a hidden person who narrates the story and in many instances, he talks to the audience.
- Leaving the fundamentals of writing behind, one can find a message present in each of Dostoevsky’s works.
- Even though his stories had philosophical and theological concepts, he always tried to put things through the perspective of the people of that time and not his imagination.
- Famous Quote: “But how could you live and have no story to tell?”
What Makes Dostoevsky’s Literature So Special?
There are many different facets which make Dosteovsky’s work so profound, one of those is the details which are put in the story, especially in books like ‘The Idiot and Demons.’ On top of that, his way of building characters so that you can connect with them is out of the box.
Meanwhile, he may use long monologues in some places, it doesn’t feel like you’re ever disconnecting from the main story.
Details in Storytelling
Dostoevsky employed great work to provide details in the storytelling—his pace is in synchronisation with the dialogues and conversation taking place in the story. The whole scene is carefully curated to give a sense of what is going on with the characters.
Character Buildup
Along with detailing, the proper use of dialogues helps to build up the characters which play a significant role in the entire plot. There are only a few instances where the characters are present only for the sake of the plot. Secondly, the utilisation of the entire plot within the main story is remarkable and can teach a lot to the new-age writers.
Use of Dialogue and Monologues
There is a persistent use of dialogues and in some cases monologues in Dostoevsky’s work. The dialogue carries the story meanwhile monologues convey a story within a story or help the reader to get a grasp of the situation going on in the book.
Curating the Scene with Third Person Perspective
Many of Dostoebsky’s works comprise of a hidden person who narrates the story and in many instances, he talks to the audience. It’s a unique aspect of his work and is one of the most significant uses of narration one can find in literature.
The Hidden Philosophical Question in Each Book
Leaving the fundamentals of writing behind, one can find a message present in each of Dostoevsky’s works.
For instance, Crime and Punsiemnet question morality meanwhile The Brothers Karamazov had a message revolving around free will. All these hidden questions can be found throughout his work.
Underlying Message
However, Dostoevsky never forces his personal beliefs in his work. Some might never recognise that he was a man of faith. And that’s what make him a great artist because he knew his job as a storyteller.
Even though his stories had philosophical and theological concepts, he always tried to put things through the perspective of the people of that time and not his imagination.
Spot On Analysis of Human Condition
People might disagree but on some issues and cases, Dostoevsky is spot on. His analysis of Raskolnikov in Crime and Punishment stands as a testament to time and is a message to modern people who believe in relativism.
Final Thoughts
Finally, these are some of the reason that makes Dostoevsky’s work so promising. However, without your reading, you can’t understand his concepts and appreciate the beauty of his storytelling.
So, if you’re looking for something, you’ll not regret Fyodor Dostoevsky.
Famous Quotes from Fyodor Dostoevsky
- “Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.”
- “To go wrong in one’s way is better than to go right in someone else’s.”
- “I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.”
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
What is Dostoevsky known for?
Fyodor Dostoevsky is known for the given works:
- Crime and Punishment
- The Brothers Karamazov
- White Nights
- Devils (Demons)
- The Idiot
Which Dostoevsky book is best?
The Brother’s Karmazov is considered the best book written by Fyodor Dostoevsky. However, Crime and Punishment is the more mainstream and famous title.
What was Dostoevsky’s famous quote?
“The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for.”
What are Fyodor Dostoevsky’s books about?
Fyodor Dostoevsky’s book revolves around psychology, theology, politics and human relations in the 19th century Russia
