Dostoevsky's Greatest Characters: A New Approach to "Notes from the Underground," Crime and Punishment, and The Brothers Karamazov

by Bernard J. Paris

There is still much interest in Dostoevsky and new ways to interpret his work and the range and breadth of the characters in his novels. Paris also focuses on his most widely read books and short stories so the titles alone will draw much appeal.While Paris builds off the theories of well-known scholars such as Mikhail Bakhtin, Joseph Frank, Karen Horney, and Victor Terras, he has a unique angle to this study. He explores tensions between Dostoevsky's psychological portraiture and his characters formal and thematic functions. This book illuminates the motivations and personalities of Dostoevsky's greatest characters more fully than has been done before.

Genres: Nonfiction

253 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely an unconventional approach. I think there is a reason why we are encouraged to stick to the text and avoid making psychological inferences about literary characters. One of those reasons is that the theories used to explain either fictional or real behavior may turn out to be unsubstantiated, which is how I feel about the psychoanalytic theories of Karen Horney. Still, I think Paris may be one of the critics I’ve encountered who is most sensitive to the various thematic, philosophical, and psychological aspects of Dostoevsky's work. Reading his recaps drew out things that I had missed or read uncritically the first time. Chapter 7, “Thematic Analysis of The Brothers Karamazov,” is spot-on and kind of perfect. The analysis of Ivan Karamazov is also brilliant.

[ds white · Rating 3 out of 5]

good book for the novice. when tackling FD don't feel that you are stupid by studying a litle bit abouyt what he is trying to do in his big later novels. They can read like terrific crime drama, but there are threads and developments, smbylyzms that would be missed if not first pinted out.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read both: "Brothers" and "Crime". Dostoevsky's knowledge if the human psyche is unparalleled. Highly recommended.

[Timothy]

Currently reading Brothers for my "group" read ..

[Edieschultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heavy Russian Drama written in the typical style of the 19th century. Hints at the future for socialism in the East. Struggles with nobility, conscience and duty.