The Meek One

Brief Overview

«The Meek One» is a novella by Fyodor Dostoevsky that tells the tragic story of a young woman known as the Meek One and her husband, who serves as the narrator. The man, a former officer, marries a poor girl, hoping she will be obedient and compliant. However, their marriage turns out to be unhappy due to his despotic nature and inability to understand and support his wife. The Meek One suffers from loneliness and humiliation, ultimately leading her to suicide. The narrator, realizing his guilt and loss, tries to understand what led to the tragedy but remains in despair and remorse. The novella explores themes of love, power, freedom, and moral responsibility.