F. M. Dostoevsky’s Novel “The Idiot”: History and Typology of Commentary

Abstract

The article reviews the history and conception typology of the novel by F.M. Dostoevsky called “Idiot” in XX century. The pluralism in understanding of purposes and objectives of its commenting which appeared between two centuries is stated, as a result the text comments and interpretation of its conception are mixed together. There is also a sharp polarization of alternative interpretations of this piece of work in the modern literature studies: the novel and its character are deemed on pro et contra principle. Hereof the simultaneous expression of Christian apology and demythologization of Myshkin's image which is caused by the receptive conflict in relation to him that is suddenly appeared in 1990 when the “inspection” of “Idiot” novel and the polemic around its principal character began. Polar opposite assessments of H. Holbein picture so ecphrasically described by Dostoevsky are considered as a stunning example of receptive and axiological conflict.

Keywords

• f.m. dostoevsky
• “idiot”
• comments
• apology and demythologization of myshkin's image
• receptive conflict
• h. holbein picture