1274: The Mock Execution of Dostoevsky

This book provides a thorough and accessible introduction to the New Testament, covering its historical background, literary characteristics, and theological themes. It is tailored for students and includes detailed explanations and analyses to facilitate a deeper understanding of the New Testament texts.

Written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky between 1867 and 1869, 'The Idiot' follows the story of Prince Lev Nikolayevich Myshkin, a young man with a pure and innocent heart, often mistaken for an 'idiot' due to his simplicity and goodness. The novel examines how this 'positively beautiful man' navigates a world filled with corruption, moral decay, and complex human relationships. Myshkin's interactions with characters like Nastasya Filippovna and Aglaia Epanchina highlight themes of love, suffering, sacrifice, and the clash between idealistic values and the harsh realities of society. The novel ultimately leads to Myshkin's mental breakdown and his inability to cope with the world around him.

The House of the Dead is a semi-autobiographical novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky, published between 1860 and 1862. It is based on Dostoevsky's own experiences in a Siberian prison camp, where he spent four years following his involvement in the Petrashevsky Circle. The novel follows the narrator, Aleksandr Petrovich Goryanchikov, as he navigates the harsh realities of prison life, undergoing a spiritual transformation amidst the brutality and monotony of the camp. Through vivid descriptions and philosophical discussions, Dostoevsky critiques the prison system while highlighting the resilience and humanity of the convicts.

Published in 1866, 'Crime and Punishment' is a psychological novel set in St. Petersburg, Russia. It revolves around Rodion Raskolnikov, an impoverished and intellectually gifted former student who formulates a theory that some individuals are morally justified in committing crimes for the greater good of society. Raskolnikov puts this theory to the test by murdering an old pawnbroker and her half-sister, leading to a profound exploration of his psychological and emotional struggles with guilt, paranoia, and the consequences of his actions. The novel delves into socio-economic disparities, moral dilemmas, and the psychology of criminals, making it a classic of Russian literature and existential thought.