The Brothers Karamazov: Bicentennial Edition

This is not an easy book for modern readers because of the obscurity of the Russian era depicted as well as the philosophical underpinnings of Dostoevsky’s novel. It requires a study guide or an outline to fully appreciate, but it’s well worth the effort for a serious reader. Dostoevsky’s portrayal of the three Karamazov brothers and their relationship with their father is one of the great themes of world literature. The two major female characters, Grushenka and Katya, represent the polar figures of women in Russia of that era. It’s standing as one of the greatest novels of the 19th century is undisputed. The chapter entitled “The Legend of the Grand Inquisitor” is a brilliant section that has been discussed and debated since its publication. I have read “BK” three times in my life, and this Pevear and Volokhonsky is undoubtedly the best one. (I listened enthusiastically to the “Audible” version as I read the text. It helped bring all the major characters to life.)

A great novel with deep roots in philosophy and unbiased arguments between people who lived in Russia in the 19th century, but still their views and perspectives are seen till this moment within every nation known to mankind. I picked this rather lengthy novel for two reasons. One because that Einstein praised it: “the most wonderful book I have ever laid my hands on”. I said to myself then what would a great mind find in this novel, so I grabbed one on the spot. Second, I have always wanted to feel and see the life of Russians and get a tiny scoop of their culture. So, this was it, and it wasn’t voiced by someone who lived among us in the current world, but rather by someone who lived in the 19th century Russia; Fyodor Dostoyevsky, 1821 - 1881. I especially loved the rich characters of the novel. The author was able to deeply express vividly their personalities and their surroundings. I very much enjoyed the arguments and the sides taken discussing grand questions regarding God, religion, and morality. I wished there was a pure voice and image of God, like we have in Islam, added to mix. I would wonder how the debates and sides would end up like. The characterization was very well and nicely summed up towards the end of the novel by the prosecutor. I very much liked how he depicted the two extremes of European enlightenment on one side, and mysticism and chauvinism on the other side, that tormented their “Mother Russia” in the 19 century and beyond, which continued to torment nations to this point. And what we live right now in the Islamic and Arab worlds but just waves of these tormenting powers. I highly recommend reading this novel but be cautious of three things. One, that the novel sometimes goes lengthy on matters and affairs that could have been easily dropped or shortened, but still was entertaining. Two, the narrative is sometimes confusing, as it alternates between someone who lives in the village and sees and hears about the novel affairs, and some grand voice that tells you about private and intimate things that could never been seen or heard of by that villager’s narrative. Third, there is a very sensitive discussion of God in the light of Russian Christianity, which does not go well with our Islam religion, so you need to be very tolerant on that matter. So be warned.

This book wrecked me in the best way. The Brothers Karamazov is a masterpiece that feels alive, digging into your soul with questions about faith, love, and what it means to be human. Dostoevsky doesn’t just tell a story—he throws you into a whirlwind of emotions and ideas that stick with you. The religion debate is a knockout, balancing Ivan’s raw doubts in “The Grand Inquisitor” with Zosima’s call to love, keeping it real and gripping without any fluff. Alyosha, my favorite, grows into a Christ-like figure of compassion, his quiet strength carrying the story’s heart. The emotions—guilt, shame, love, sacrifice—hit hard, especially Ilyusha’s story and the speech at the stone, which left me floored. Every character, from Dmitri’s passion to Fyodor’s chaos, feels so vivid and flawed. This isn’t just fiction; it’s a life-changing journey I’ll reread to unpack its depth. Nothing to dislike here—just pure, unforgettable heart.

This book has taken me so long to finish because of the depth of topics discussed. We have a cruel father to 3 sons. 2 of which are cynical and base - both blaming themselves for their father’s murder. Ivan, the middle son feels morally culpable for the murder of his father. Which I don’t really hold against him because fyodor was not a good man. We see that the debauched life of fyodor has lead to mistrust among his children, envy, and his untimely death. This man gave in to every carnal pleasure, without a care for how it tore his family apart. He betrayed and lied to his sons, even attempting to steal his son’s love interest. Alyosha is the youngest child, who became a monk. He becomes the moral compass for all characters in this story. Those who speak with him look for absolution and for righteousness in a world full of injustice. Alyosha is the only brother who truly believes in god and his life, values and views are shaped by his faith. Dimitri, the eldest who was charged with patricide lacks accountability for his own actions and gives in to all temptations, leading to his scorned lover betraying him, becoming the linchpin for the prosecution. This book explores the meaning of justice, the role of a parent, the way faith influences our actions, entitlement, the innocence of the youth, and the faith we have in our justice systems. I felt so much of it went over my head but I was left with a love for Alyosha and his perceptiveness, his loyalty to those he loved. Alyosha calls everyone to maintain the joy and innocence we had as children, to do right by your family, and to be faithful.

Finished it at the third try ! Well worth it ... it's one of those books that picks up speed and gets better as it goes along.

essa versão é a mais extensa das traduções, mas teoricamente a mais fiel ao texto original. um retrato de uma sociedade não tão diferente da atual, descrita brilhantemente por dostoievsky

One of Russia's greatest novel superbly translated! Entrancing, lively, diverse ranging from theology to psychology and yet thrilling. Worth reading and rereading.

Don't be put off by the first half, that could seem clunky and contrived. The second half is truly sublime.

My first work of Dostoevsky. Im half way through the book and it always captures me in various emotions. Truly, an Enthralling novel! Please be careful that that you only get "Richard Pervear and Larissa Volokhonsky" translation.

This is one of the best literary fiction books I’ve ever read