Uncle's Dream

Book Review

"Uncle's Dream" is a novella by Fyodor Dostoevsky, written in 1859, which serves as a satirical work mocking provincial manners and human weaknesses. At the center of the plot is the story of how, in the small town of Mordasov, an attempt is made to marry a young girl to a wealthy but old and sickly prince, who during his visit to the town falls asleep and dreams a dream that becomes a key element of the intrigue. Critics note that Dostoevsky masterfully uses grotesque and irony in this novella to expose the hypocrisy and greed of provincial society. The characters are vividly and caricaturedly drawn, allowing the author not only to entertain the reader but also to provoke thought about the moral aspects of human actions. Despite the lightness and comedic nature of the narrative, "Uncle's Dream" touches on serious themes such as greed, vanity, and deception, making it relevant even today. Critics also emphasize that this novella is an important stage in Dostoevsky's creative development, demonstrating his ability to combine social satire with deep psychological insight.