Fyodor Dostoyevsky 
Poor Folk 

Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s ‘Poor Folk’ is a masterpiece of Russian literature that delves into the lives of the impoverished in 19th century St. Petersburg. The epistolary novel paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by the destitute protagonists, Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova, as they navigate poverty and societal expectations. Dostoyevsky’s writing style is characterized by its emotional depth and psychological insight, making ‘Poor Folk’ a compelling and poignant read. The novel is a precursor to Dostoyevsky’s later works, showcasing his exploration of human suffering and redemption in the face of adversity. As a pioneering work of Russian realism, ‘Poor Folk’ offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life for the marginalized in czarist Russia. Readers will be captivated by Dostoyevsky’s evocative portrayal of the human condition and the resilient spirit of his characters.

About the author

Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoyevsky (1821–1881) is regarded as one of the towering figures of Russian literature and a profoundly influential philosopher of human psychology. Born in Moscow, Dostoyevsky was introduced to literature at an early age through fairy tales and legends, and later through books by Russian and foreign authors. His literary debut came with the publication of ‘Poor Folk’ in 1846, which garnered him a flurry of attention due to its stark portrayal of life for the poor in Russia. The novel’s social commentary and distinctive narrative style, which showcases a deep empathy for the downtrodden and a keen insight into the complexities of human nature, marked the beginning of Dostoyevsky’s exploration of the human condition, a theme that would echo throughout his career. His work is characterized by a penetrating analysis of psychology, an often-dramatic depiction of existential despair, and the struggle of man’s spiritual redemption. His famous works, such as ‘Crime and Punishment, ‘ ‘The Idiot, ‘ and ‘The Brothers Karamazov, ‘ to name a few, are considered masterpieces, transcending the Russian literary canon and achieving global recognition. Dostoyevsky’s novels have left an indelible mark on the landscape of world literature due to their psychological depth, philosophical intensity, and the moral questions they posed, which remain just as significant in contemporary discourse as they were during his lifetime.