The Possessed by Fyodor Dostoevsky (Vintage 1951 Hardcover)

Description

“The Possessed” (also known as “Demons” or “The Devils”) is a novel written by the Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky. It was first published in 1872 and is considered one of Dostoevsky’s major works. The novel explores themes of political extremism, nihilism, and the destructive power of radical ideologies.

Set in a provincial Russian town, “The Possessed” follows a cast of characters who are caught up in a tumultuous and chaotic period marked by social and political unrest. The story revolves around the interactions and conflicts between a group of radical intellectuals, their revolutionary ideas, and the impact of those ideas on society.

Key characters and plot points in “The Possessed” include:

1. Pyotr Verkhovensky: A charismatic and manipulative nihilist who leads a group of radical revolutionaries. He seeks to overthrow the existing social order and is responsible for manipulating several characters to serve his revolutionary cause.
2. Nikolai Stavrogin: A complex and enigmatic figure, Stavrogin is a central character whose moral ambiguity and internal struggles make him a focal point of the novel. He is involved with both Verkhovensky’s group and the larger social unrest.
3. Stepan Trofimovich Verkhovensky: A former intellectual and mentor to some of the characters, Stepan represents the older generation’s idealism and its struggles to come to terms with the changing world.
4. Varvara Stavrogina: Stavrogin’s wife, Varvara, is a cunning and assertive woman who wields significant influence over those around her.
5. The Plot: The novel’s plot involves the conspiratorial activities of Verkhovensky’s group, which aims to incite chaos and rebellion in the town. The group’s ideologies and actions lead to tragic consequences and conflicts within the community.

Dostoevsky uses “The Possessed” to explore philosophical and ideological debates of his time, particularly the clash between radicalism and traditionalism, nihilism and faith, and the potential consequences of pursuing extreme ideologies. The characters’ interactions and dilemmas are portrayed with psychological depth and complexity, offering a rich tapestry of human nature and societal dynamics.

“The Possessed” is often regarded as a challenging and thought-provoking work, showcasing Dostoevsky’s mastery of psychological insight and his ability to dissect the complexities of the human psyche in the context of societal upheaval.