A Nasty Story

Brief Overview

In the story «A Nasty Story», Fyodor Dostoevsky narrates the tale of Ivan Ilyich Pralizhayev, a bureaucrat who decides to attend the wedding of his subordinate to showcase his kindness and democratic spirit. However, his visit turns into a series of awkward and humiliating situations. Pralizhayev, being drunk, begins to behave inappropriately, causing embarrassment and bewilderment among the guests. Ultimately, his attempt to make a good impression ends in complete failure, and he leaves, having made an unpleasant impression. The story mocks the hypocrisy and self-satisfaction of those in power, illustrating how their attempts to appear better than they are can backfire.