The Idiot [Paperback]

The Idiot is one of the finest novels in history, perhaps the finest. In this novel, the enigma that is often referred to as "THE RUSSIAN SOUL" is variously dissected through the different characters and more so by the hero of the story Prince Myshkin. In its simplest explanation, it is a soul with good intentions but faulty in executing the intentions. It is a soul in conflict, driven by the zest for life and a search of its meaning. Certainly the most Christian of Dostoyevsky's novels, THE IDIOT portrays how disastrous a good life can be. Rich in characters, this classic centers mostly on the good Prince Myshkin, a recovering epileptic with a rich soul who is easily perceived as an 'idiot' by the casual observer who focuses on his childlike manners especially in expressing himself and his naivety in dealing with people. But then a closer look reveals that his manners are the reflections of his honest soul, the wealth of his big heart and the broadness of his mind.

And only in deeper engagements does it become evident that Myshkin however has superior understanding and expression, which makes him modest and intelligent rather than stupid. His simple, honest and decent life is succinctly conveyed in his interactions, generating both love and resentment. The saintly Myshkin however struggles to deal with a materialistic world which has no place for the virtuous, and to reconcile his passionate and compassionate love for two women. But the love of the women corrupt and drives men out of their minds. Nastasia Filipovna whom Myshkin has compassionate love for is a tormented soul that can only love Christ and in Myshkin she found that Christ-like figure. Her rival Aglia has Myshkin's heart but failed to understand Myshkin's serene love for her and abandons him to the destructive love of Nastasia.

This is great intellectual work that we should to take seriously in general, a book to read with a serious mindset. Then you will understand the unique nature of Russia which our western minds have difficulties to comprehend. This strange land called Russia that has a bigger soul than any other is explored here in this story in a way that only Dostoyevsky unveils. Read it and you will finish it enriched. The Idiot is a thoroughly enjoyable novel of ideas that explores the nature of man and society and gives you a better idea of man and his actions. You shouldn't find it strange that the characters are philosophical, impulsive, introspective, energetic, colorful, and extreme in their passions. That is Russia, a land of extremes. This book is likely to impact you. It is one of the few of our times. I highly recommend it along with THE UNION MOUJIK, BROTHERS KARAMAZOV, CRIME AND PUNISHMENT.

This is one of the most readable classics, especially amongst the great Russians. The prince is a supremely sympathetic creation and his trials contain as much suspense as any melodrama. At points the novel edges towards melodrama itself but its fundamental truths regarding passion and compassion raise it to a higher level of fiction. Themes of money, corruption, and society are woven seamlessly together into a compelling read. As with Pevear/Volokhonsky's Anna Karenina, the translation is well-suited for modern readers.

The Idiot attracted my attention as a High School student due to its title. We all feel like idiots in High School, all play up our own value and exaggerate our own sense of nobility. So imagine the cheer delight that awaited me when I opened this book! I read it voraciously throughout the entire summer. I loved getting up early to read it and often went to bed late still reading it. Many times the book was my face shield for a summer nap and a pillow.
The splendour of the Russian court, the embarrassingly affected ruin of its people, the mocked eloquence of the revolutionaries and the profound innocence of a man who is both decorative and a witness. I recommend this novel to anyone who wishes to understand the theater of life.