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Dostoyevsky
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Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky
A Literary Giant of 19th Century Russia
Full Name and Common Aliases
Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky was born on November 11, 1821, in Moscow, Russia. He is commonly known by his first name, Fyodor, or by the nickname "Dostoevsky," which translates to "son of a village elder."
Birth and Death Dates
November 11, 1821 - February 9, 1881
Nationality and Profession(s)
Russian novelist, journalist, philosopher, and social commentator. Dostoevsky's literary career spanned over three decades, during which he wrote novels, short stories, articles, and essays on various subjects.
Early Life and Background
Dostoevsky was born into a family of nobility, but his father's financial struggles forced them to live modestly. The young Fyodor showed a keen interest in literature from an early age and was educated by his father, who instilled in him a love for classical Russian literature. However, Dostoevsky's life took a dramatic turn when he joined the Russian Army at the age of 17. He was sent to fight in the Caucasus region, where he contracted tuberculosis.
Life-Changing Experiences
During his time in the army, Dostoevsky witnessed the harsh realities of war and experienced personal tragedies that would shape his writing for years to come. In 1849, he was arrested for participating in a group of intellectuals who advocated for democratic reforms. The experience left him with a deep understanding of the human condition and a desire to explore the complexities of morality.
Major Accomplishments
Dostoevsky's literary career can be divided into two distinct periods: his early works as a journalist and novelist, and his later novels that cemented his reputation as one of Russia's greatest writers. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
Early Successes
- Poor Folk (1846): Dostoevsky's first published novel, which introduced the character of Arkady Dolgorukov, a young intellectual struggling with social injustice.
- The Double (1846): A novella that explores themes of identity and morality through the story of a man who discovers his doppelganger.
Masterpieces
- Crime and Punishment (1866): Considered one of Dostoevsky's greatest works, this novel delves into the psyche of a young intellectual who commits a heinous crime.
- The Brothers Karamazov (1880): A philosophical novel that explores faith, morality, and redemption through the story of three brothers.
Notable Works or Actions
Dostoevsky's writing often grappled with complex social issues, such as poverty, inequality, and the human condition. Some notable works include:
- Notes from Underground (1864): A novella that explores themes of alienation and rebellion through the story of a former government official.
- The House of the Dead (1862): An autobiographical work based on Dostoevsky's experiences in a Siberian prison.
Impact and Legacy
Dostoevsky's impact on literature is immense. His works have influenced generations of writers, including authors such as Leo Tolstoy, Vladimir Nabokov, and Albert Camus. His exploration of the human condition continues to captivate readers worldwide.
Enduring Themes
- Morality: Dostoevsky's works often grapple with complex moral issues, leaving readers to ponder the nature of right and wrong.
- Psychology: His characters are known for their nuanced psychological profiles, making them relatable and memorable.
- Social Commentary: Through his writing, Dostoevsky sheds light on social injustices and critiques the societal norms of his time.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Dostoevsky's quotes often capture the essence of human nature. His words are a reflection of his profound understanding of the complexities that shape us as individuals. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of literature to inspire, provoke, and challenge our perspectives.
Quotes
- "Beauty will save the world."
- "The degree of a man's intelligence is directly proportional to the number of conflicting observations he can comfortably hold in his head simultaneously."
These quotes represent Dostoevsky's enduring presence in literature and his continued relevance in contemporary thought. His life, works, and legacy remind us that great writing has the power to transcend time and touch the human experience.
Fyodor Dostoevsky: A Literary Giant of 19th Century Russia
His words continue to inspire, provoke, and challenge readers worldwide. As we reflect on his biography, it becomes clear why he is widely quoted and remembered – his works are a testament to the power of literature to capture the human condition in all its complexity.
Quotes by Dostoyevsky
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But in those eyes and in the lines of her exquisite lips there was something with which his brother might well be passionately in love, but which perhaps could not be loved for long.
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...In his heart there is the secret of renewal for all, the power that will finally establish the truth on earth, and all will be holy and will love one another, and there will be neither rich nor poor, neither exalted nor humiliated, but all will be the like the children of God, and the true kingdom of Christ will come.' That was the dream in Alyosha's heart." (Dostoyevsky, "The Brothers Karamazov: The Elders")
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.'..In his heart there is the secret of renewal for all, the power that will finally establish the truth on earth, and all will be holy and will love one another, and there will be neither rich nor poor, neither exalted nor humiliated, but all will be the like the children of God, and the true kingdom of Christ will come.' That was the dream in Alyosha's heart." (Dostoyevsky, "The Brothers Karamazov: The Elders")
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An elder was one who took your soul, your will, into his soul and his will. When you choose an elder, you renounce your own will and yield it to him in complete submission, complete self-abnegation" just like some Muslims who conseiders their sheikh as holy, some christians worship their (elder)
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A strange idea was pecking at his brain like a chicken in the egg, and very, very much absorbed him.
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Well, I maintain that we haven't one single Russian Socialist; there are none and there have never been, for all our Socialists are also landowners or divinity students. All our notorious and professed Socialists, both here and abroad, are nothing more than Liberals from the landed gentry of the serf-owning days.
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Consciousness is man's greatest misfortune, still I know that man loves it and will not exchange it for any satisfactions.
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In the whole world there is no deeper, no mightier literary work. This is, so far, the last and greatest expression of human thought... And if the world were to come to an end, and people were asked there, somewhere: “Did you understand your life on earth, and what conclusions have you drawn from it?”—man could silently hand over Don Quijote.(The Diary of a Writer, cited in Gilman, 76)
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...Imagine that you yourself are building the edifice of human destiny with the object of making people happy in the finale, of giving them peace and rest at last, but for that you must inevitably and unavoidably torture just one tiny creature, that same child who was beating her chest with her little fist, and raise your edifice on the foundation of her unrequited tears--would you agree to be the architect on such conditions?
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