How Well Do You Know Fyodor Dostoevsky's Works?

"Crime and Punishment" delves into the tormented psyche of Rodion Raskolnikov, a destitute law student in Saint Petersburg. As he contemplates murdering a pawnbroker to escape poverty, the novel unfolds a gripping narrative of moral conflicts, paranoia, and self-discovery.

"The Idiot" revolves around Lev Nikolayevich Myshkin, a character whose innate goodness and simplicity lead others to misconstrue him, exploring themes of morality and societal perceptions.

Fyodor Pavlovich, a hedonistic and buffoonish character, is the father of the Karamazov brothers, each representing diverse facets of the human experience.

"Demons" exists in several English translations like The Possessed, The Devils, and Demons. Constance Garnett's 1916 translation popularised the novel by the title, "The Possessed," capturing the essence of political turmoil and societal upheaval in the novel.

Dunya, the beautiful and strong-willed sister in "Crime and Punishment," serves as a key character, adding layers to the narrative through her relationships and choices.

"Poor Folk," Dostoevsky's inaugural novel, intricately weaves the tale of Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova, exploring poverty, social dynamics, and the complexity of human relationships.

Ivan Karamazov engages his brother Alexei in profound discussions, questioning the existence of a personal and benevolent God, adding depth to the novel's philosophical underpinnings.

"Notes from the Underground," a thought-provoking novella, was originally published in the journal Epoch in 1864, introducing readers to the complex psyche of the unnamed narrator.

"The Grand Inquisitor" is a profound short story nestled within "The Brothers Karamazov." Ivan Karamazov presents it as a parable, questioning the concept of a benevolent God in the face of human suffering.

Dmitri's character in "The Brothers Karamazov" draws inspiration from the real-life convict D.I. Ilyinsky, encountered by Dostoevsky during his time in Siberian prison.

Anton Lavrentyevich, a sensible civil servant, narrates "Demons," chronicling the peculiar events unfolding in his town and providing valuable insights into the story.

"The Double," subtitled "A Petersburg Poem," explores the psychological unraveling of Golyadkin, a government clerk encountering his doppelgänger, in the bustling city of Petersburg.

"The House of the Dead," a semi-autobiographical novel, found its first readership in the journal Vremya, offering a glimpse into Dostoevsky's prison experiences.

"Notes from the Underground," also known as "Letters from the Underworld," unveils the innermost thoughts of an alienated and introspective narrator, challenging societal norms and philosophical ideals.

The first part of the book, titled "Underground," consists of the narrator's introspective and philosophical musings. It delves into his thoughts on various topics such as free will, human nature, and society, setting the stage for the more narrative-driven second part.