The Double

Interesting Facts

• "The Double" is one of Dostoevsky's first works where he explores the theme of split personality, which would become a hallmark of his later works.
• The book was written in the genre of "fantastic realism," allowing Dostoevsky to explore psychological aspects of human nature through the lens of unusual events.
• The main character, Yakov Petrovich Golyadkin, suffers from paranoia and hallucinations, making him one of the first literary characters with mental disorders.
• "The Double" was published in 1846 but did not receive recognition from critics of the time, who found it too complex and confusing.
• The work is inspired by Nikolai Gogol's story "The Nose," evident in the use of elements of absurdity and satire.
• The theme of duality and internal conflict raised in the book significantly influenced the development of Russian and world literature, inspiring many writers to create works with similar themes.