Demons

Fyodor Dostoyevsky

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'Demons' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel set in a small Russian town at the end of the 19th century, exploring themes of political anarchy, nihilism, and the impact of revolutionary violence. The plot revolves around the appearance of a group of modish radicals disrupting the peace of the town, led by charismatic but nihilistic Nikolai Stavrogin. The novel delves into the disarray caused by the conflicting ideologies of the characters and the moral decay within society, building a complex moral tale around the characters' actions and beliefs.

The writing style of 'Demons' is described as intricate and profound, with layers of allegories and philosophical treatises woven into the narrative. Dostoyevsky's narrative voice is noted for its ironic humor even when discussing dark and terrible events, creating a unique reading experience that delves deep into the psychological complexities of the characters and the societal upheaval they bring.

Characters:

The characters reflect a spectrum of ideologies, with Stavrogin as a key figure representing moral and ideological conflicts amid societal chaos.

Writing/Prose:

The writing combines intense dialogue and psychological exploration, employing varied narrative styles and perspectives, often blending humor with serious themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative addresses themes of revolution and nihilism, revolving around a group of conspirators in a Russian provincial town, exploring the philosophical implications of their actions and beliefs.

Setting:

The setting serves as a microcosm of 19th-century Russia, accentuating revolutionary tensions and moral complexities within a provincial environment.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, marked by a slow beginning focused on setup and character development, followed by more intense and engaging latter sections.

"flaccid woman" had prepared them in advance and had relished their effect beforehand. But Varvara Petrovna was not one to be taken aback by sentimental effects and riddles. She sternly demanded the m...

Notes:

Demons is about ideological revolution, focused on the thoughts of its conspirators rather than actual political change.

Many characters in Demons philosophize but fail to act on their beliefs.

Stavrogin is a complex character often seen as an antichrist figure due to his moral ambiguity.

The novel critiques both radical left ideologies and the ineffective conservative status quo.

Kirillov believes that to overcome fear of death, one must become their own deity through suicide.

Dostoevsky explores themes of nihilism, atheism, and the moral decay following Europe's radical ideologies.

The book is a critical satire of revolutionary politics in 19th-century Russia and its consequences.

Notably, it includes a once-censored chapter that deepens the understanding of the character Stavrogin.

Dostoevsky uses humor to highlight the absurdity of characters' revolutionary zeal.

Demons's characters often symbolize conflicting ideologies of their time, making the story a broader commentary on Russian society.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The novel contains themes of violence, suicide, and existential despair that may be distressing to some readers.

From The Publisher:

A superb new translation of Dostoyevsky's chilling and prophetic novel of revolutionary fanaticism

Pyotr and Stavrogin are the leaders of a Russian revolutionary cell. Their aim is to overthrow the Tsar, destroy society, and seize power for themselves. Together they train terrorists who are willing to lay down their lives to accomplish their goals. But when the group is threatened with exposure, will their recruits be willing to kill one of their own to cover their tracks? Savage and powerful yet lively and often comic, Demons was inspired by a real-life political murder and is a scathing and eerily prescient indictment of those who use violence to serve their beliefs.

Ratings (14)

Incredible (5)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (3)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (48):

Read It (14)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (29)
Not Interested (4)

1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

It Was OK

1 month

It had some really good bits and writing to it and it was interesting in parts. But for most of it, it was an absolute slog for me. Took me two days to read but definitely feelt like a week. I can see why people like it and why it's a classic however it was not for me. Feel more tired and exhausted after finishing it rather then a satisfying feeling I often have with classics.

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About the Author:

Fyodor Dostoyevsky (1821-1881), one of nineteenth-century Russia's greatest novelists, spent four years in a convict prison in Siberia, after which he was obliged to enlist in the army. In later years his penchant for gambling sent him deeply into debt. Most…

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