A review by verpissdich
The Originals: The Brothers Karamazov by Constance Garnett, Fyodor Dostoevsky

dark emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Translator's prose neither too dense not too colloquial.

The Grand Inquisitor section (Ivan's Peom) is very thought provoking.

Alyosha's character development after the death of father Zossima, or perhaps significant lack thereof, also thought provoking.


I found the recounting of Father Zossima's life through the narrator and Alyosha's recollection highly tedious, but nonetheless illuminating, especially in its parallels to Dmitri's transformation after his arrest. I also found it slightly difficult to get through Dmitri's interrogation while at the inn, and his presumed guilt is infuriating to read through although this is clearly intentional.


In general, an enjoyable examination of human nature.
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