Poor Folk

Summary

«Poor Folk» is the first novel by Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky, presented in an epistolary format. At the heart of the narrative is the correspondence between two impoverished relatives, Makar Devushkin and Varvara Alexeyevna Dobroselova, who reside in St. Petersburg. Makar works as a clerk and strives to assist Varvara in any way he can, despite his own dire living conditions. The novel touches on themes of love, poverty, and social humiliation, illustrating how the characters endeavor to maintain their dignity amidst challenging circumstances.

Main Ideas

• Exploration of poverty and social inequality in 19th-century Russia
• Examination of human relationships through the lens of correspondence between the two main characters
• Depiction of the clash between dreams and harsh reality, affecting the psychological state and relationships of the characters
• Reflections on self-worth and dignity in conditions of poverty and humiliation
• Critique of social norms and the revelation of melodramatic elements in the lives of ordinary people
• The question of the influence of literature and education on an individual's consciousness and status in society

Historical Context and Significance

«Poor Folk» is Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky's first novel, published in 1846, which brought the author recognition and popularity. The epistolary novel holds a special place in Russian literature, as Dostoevsky is considered one of the founders of social-psychological prose. The work addresses themes of poverty, the human soul, interpersonal relationships, and social injustice. These themes became central to Dostoevsky's later literary endeavors, and the novel «Poor Folk» influenced the development of Russian realism and heightened interest in social issues in literature.

Main Characters and Their Development

• Makar Devushkin - a poor clerk beset by financial difficulties. He harbors deep feelings for Varvara Alexeyevna. Makar cares for her, trying to alleviate her difficult situation. His character is marked by kindness, compassion, and unconditional attachment.
• Varvara Alexeyevna Dobroselova - a young woman in a poor and challenging situation. She possesses intelligence and a sensitive soul, striving for education and spiritual expression. Varvara shares Makar's feelings and, through their correspondence, opens up to him, sharing her fears and hopes.

Style and Technique

«Poor Folk» by Fyodor Dostoevsky is an epistolary novel where the entire narrative is constructed through the exchange of letters between the two main characters: Makar Devushkin and Varvara Alexeyevna Dobroselova. Makar's letters are characterized by awkwardness and naivety, highlighting his social and educational status. Varvara's letters exhibit a more structured and expressive style. The novel sheds light on the lives of the impoverished, using lively colloquial language, which was innovative for Russian literature at the time. The text is rich in details describing the squalid lives of the characters, creating a realistic depiction of society.

Interesting Facts

• «Poor Folk» is considered the first social-psychological novel in Russian literature.
• The novel is written in the form of correspondence between the two main characters — Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova.
• The work was highly praised by critics, particularly Vissarion Belinsky, who called it «a new Gogol».
• Dostoevsky wrote the novel in just nine months, which was quite rapid for that era.
• The novel addresses themes of poverty, humiliation, and human dignity, which became characteristic of Dostoevsky's work.
• «Poor Folk» was Dostoevsky's first published work, bringing him fame and recognition in literary circles.

Book Review

«Poor Folk» is Fyodor Dostoevsky's first novel, which immediately captured the attention of critics and readers. The book is written in the form of an epistolary novel, allowing for a deeper insight into the inner world of the characters. The main characters, Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova, live in poverty and constant struggle for survival. Critics note Dostoevsky's skill in depicting psychological portraits and social issues. The novel touches on themes of human dignity, compassion, and loneliness. Despite its somber atmosphere, the book is full of deep emotional experiences and sincerity. «Poor Folk» became an important step in the development of Russian literature and a precursor to Dostoevsky's great works.