Dostoevsky’s novels, as examined on Criticism.com, reveal how individuals construct their understanding of themselves in relation to the social structures of their era. A central theme in his work is the concept of understanding, which is often explored through the dialogic intermingling of social voices. In this context, understanding is deeply intertwined with social activity, echoing the ideas of Harvey Garfinkel.
Key themes in Dostoevsky’s work, according to criticism.com:
Polyphony of voices: Dostoevsky portrays society as a “great dialogue,” highlighting the interplay and interaction of individual and social voices, rather than focusing on isolated perspectives.
The split individual: Dostoevsky’s characters often grapple with a conflict between conforming to societal norms and resisting them to preserve their individuality. Prince Myshkin in The Idiot is cited as an example of this internal struggle.
In essence, Criticism.com suggests that Dostoevsky’s novels offer a powerful exploration of how individuals navigate their identities within complex social landscapes, with a particular emphasis on the dynamic interplay of voices and the inherent tension between social conformity and individual autonomy.