Dostoevsky's first novel is 'Poor Folk'. It was published in 1846. This work showcases Dostoevsky's early exploration of the human condition, especially the lives of the poor in Russian society. It's written in the form of letters between the two main characters, Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova, and through these letters, we can see their struggles, hopes, and the complex relationship between them.
Fyodor Dostoevsky's first novel is 'Poor Folk'. It was published in 1846. This work is significant as it showcases Dostoevsky's early exploration of the human condition, especially the lives of the poor in Russian society. It is written in the form of letters between two main characters, Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova, through which Dostoevsky delved into themes such as poverty, love, and the struggle for dignity.
'The Brothers Karamazov' could also be a good starting point. Although it's a long and complex novel, it offers a rich tapestry of characters and themes. The relationship between the three Karamazov brothers and their father is full of drama, love, hate, and philosophical debates about faith, morality, and family. It's a great introduction to Dostoevsky's ability to handle multiple plotlines and complex ideas.
Dostoevsky's first novella was Crime and Punishment. This novel was first published in 1831, which was the beginning of Dostoyevsky's creation and also the reason why he became great. The novel was set in a noble family and told the story of the protagonist Peter Kalevinsky's crime and punishment. It deeply explored the issues of human nature, morality, faith and law. It was considered one of Dostoevsky's most representative works.
In Dostoevsky's first novel, the themes of social inequality are prominent. The gap between the rich and the poor is clearly depicted. Also, the theme of love and friendship emerges. The relationship between the two main characters is complex, with elements of love, pity, and friendship, which are all influenced by their social status and poverty. Additionally, the theme of hope in the face of despair can be seen as the characters keep trying to find a better way of life.
The main feature of Dostoevsky's 'Poor Folk' is its epistolary form. The story unfolds through letters. Also, it focuses on the lives of the poor, showing their struggles and their simple joys. Another feature is the detailed psychological exploration of the characters, even in this early work, we can see Dostoevsky's talent for getting into the minds of his characters.
I would recommend 'Crime and Punishment'. It's a very accessible and gripping story. The plot about a young man who commits a murder and then struggles with his conscience is both thought - provoking and engaging. It gives a good taste of Dostoevsky's exploration of the human psyche and moral dilemmas.
One of Dostoevsky's novels from 1868 could be 'The Idiot'. It is significant as it delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes like innocence, redemption, and the complex nature of society. The characters in the novel are complex and their interactions show the various facets of human nature, both good and bad.
In my opinion, 'Crime and Punishment' is one of the best. It delves deep into the psyche of a young man, Raskolnikov, who commits a murder and then grapples with his conscience. The exploration of guilt, redemption, and the human condition is masterfully done.