This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Crime and Punishment

   

   A young, impoverished former student in Saint Petersburg, Russia, formulates a plan to kill an unscrupulous pawnbroker to redistribute her wealth among the needy. However, after carrying out the act, he is consumed by guilt and paranoia, leading to a psychological battle within himself. As he grapples with his actions, he also navigates complex relationships with a variety of characters, including a virtuous prostitute, his sister, and a relentless detective. The narrative explores themes of morality, redemption, and the psychological impacts of crime.

   The 11th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. The Brothers Karamazov

   A Novel in Four Parts With Epilogue

   

   This classic novel explores the complex, passionate, and troubled relationship between four brothers and their father in 19th century Russia. The narrative delves into the themes of faith, doubt, morality, and redemption, as each brother grapples with personal dilemmas and family conflicts. The story culminates in a dramatic trial following a murder, which serves as a microcosm of the moral and philosophical struggles faced by each character, and by extension, humanity itself.

   The 18th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. The Idiot

   

   The book follows the story of a kind-hearted and naive protagonist who returns to Russia from a Swiss sanatorium, where he was treated for a severe epileptic condition. Despite his pure intentions, he gets entangled in a web of love, greed, and manipulation, leading to tragic consequences. The novel explores themes of innocence, love, sacrifice, and societal expectations, offering a profound critique of Russian society during the 19th century.

   The 57th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Demons

   The Possessed

   

   "The Possessed" is a complex political novel set in a provincial Russian town, exploring the destructive influence of radical ideologies on society. The narrative revolves around a group of revolutionaries, their philosophical debates and their destructive actions, driven by nihilism and anarchism. The story is a critique of the political and social chaos of the time, showcasing the author's deep understanding of human psychology and his profound insights into the human condition. It is an exploration of faith, reason, and the nature of freedom and is considered one of the most significant works of Russian literature.

   The 94th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Notes from the Underground

   

   This novel is a profound exploration of the human psyche through the eyes of a bitter and isolated retired civil servant living in St. Petersburg. The protagonist, a self-proclaimed "sick" and "spiteful" man, delves into his past experiences and personal philosophies in a series of rambling and often contradictory monologues. His existential musings touch on themes such as free will, determinism, and the nature of human action, often challenging the prevailing ideologies of his time. The narrative provides a deep and unsettling insight into the darker aspects of human consciousness.

   The 342nd Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. The Gambler

   

   "The Gambler" is a novel that explores the psychological implications of addiction, specifically gambling. The story is narrated by a young tutor working in the household of a wealthy Russian general. He becomes obsessed with roulette and falls in love with a beautiful but cruel woman in the general's employ. The narrative delves into his descent into addiction, his tumultuous relationship with the woman he loves, and the impact of his destructive habits on his life and those around him.

   The 2609th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Poor Folk

   

   The novel unfolds as a poignant exchange of letters between two impoverished relatives, an elderly clerk and a young woman, who share their struggles, hopes, and the grim reality of their lives in 19th-century St. Petersburg. Their correspondence reveals the depth of their bond and the social pressures that keep them trapped in poverty. Through their heartfelt and sometimes despairing messages, the narrative paints a vivid picture of the harsh societal conditions of the time, exploring themes of poverty, class, and the human desire for dignity and connection amidst adversity.

   The 3000th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. Notes From Underground & Other Stories

   

   This collection delves into the complexities of the human psyche through a series of introspective narratives, exploring themes of existential angst, alienation, and the struggle for identity. The central piece, a monologue by a disenchanted and isolated narrator, reveals his disdain for society and his own self-destructive tendencies, offering a profound critique of rationalism and the human condition. Accompanying stories further illuminate the intricacies of human emotions and moral dilemmas, painting a vivid picture of the inner turmoil faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world.

   The 5904th Greatest Book of All Time

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9. 9. Short Novels

   A Collection of Masterpieces

   

   This collection of works by the renowned Russian author delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring themes of morality, free will, and the existential struggles of individuals in society. The narratives often focus on characters who are grappling with profound internal conflicts, societal pressures, and ethical dilemmas. Through a series of intense, philosophical dialogues and dramatic plot developments, the author examines the nature of good and evil, the possibility of redemption, and the enduring question of what it means to be human. Each novella in the collection serves as a powerful exploration of the complexities of the soul and the human condition.

   The 7216th Greatest Book of All Time

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10. 10. Humiliated And Insulted

    

    This novel delves into the complex emotional and psychological landscapes of its characters, focusing on a young writer who becomes entangled in the lives of an orphaned girl, his unrequited love, and a friend who betrays him. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia, the narrative explores themes of redemption, love, and the human capacity for forgiveness amidst societal decay and personal despair. Through its intricate portrayal of relationships and moral dilemmas, the story examines the depths of human suffering and the potential for humility and compassion to emerge from humiliation and insult.

    The 11543rd Greatest Book of All Time

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11. 11. White Nights

    

    The story unfolds over several nights in St. Petersburg, where a solitary and dreamy young man encounters a distressed woman named Nastenka. As they walk the city's streets, he becomes infatuated with her, sharing his fantasies and loneliness. Nastenka, however, is waiting for her true love to return. Through their conversations, themes of unrequited love, longing, and the contrast between dreams and reality are explored. Ultimately, the protagonist's hopes are dashed when Nastenka's lover returns, leaving him to face the solitude of his existence once more.

    The 14783rd Greatest Book of All Time

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12. 12. O Sonho De Um Homem Ridículo

    

    In this philosophical short story, the protagonist, a man plagued by feelings of insignificance and despair, contemplates suicide but is interrupted by a dream that profoundly alters his perspective. In the dream, he is transported to a utopian world where purity, love, and truth reign supreme, only to witness its corruption by human flaws. Upon awakening, he is transformed, realizing the potential for redemption and the importance of love and compassion in the real world. This revelation ignites a newfound purpose in him, as he dedicates himself to spreading this message of hope and moral awakening.

    The 16515th Greatest Book of All Time

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13. 13. The House of the Dead

    

    The 16703rd Greatest Book of All Time

14. 14. Notes From Underground, White Nights, The Dream Of A Ridiculous Man, And Selections From The House Of The Dead

    Four Short Novels

    

    This collection of works delves into the depths of human psychology and existential despair, exploring themes of isolation, redemption, and the search for meaning. Through a series of introspective narratives and character studies, the stories examine the complexities of the human condition, often highlighting the struggles between rational thought and emotional turmoil. The protagonists grapple with their own inadequacies and societal alienation, ultimately seeking understanding and connection in a world that seems indifferent to their plight. These tales offer profound insights into the nature of suffering and the potential for personal transformation.

    The 17044th Greatest Book of All Time
15. 15. The Double And The Gambler

    

    In this compelling narrative, the protagonist grapples with the duality of human nature and the destructive allure of gambling. The story delves into the psychological turmoil of a man who encounters his doppelgänger, leading to a profound identity crisis and a descent into madness. Simultaneously, the seductive pull of gambling ensnares him, highlighting the tension between rationality and compulsion. Through vivid characterizations and intricate plotlines, the tale explores themes of self-destruction, existential dread, and the relentless pursuit of fortune, ultimately painting a poignant picture of the human condition.

    The 17047th Greatest Book of All Time

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16. 16. The Gentle Spirit

    A Fantastic Story

    

    In this poignant and introspective novella, a pawnbroker reflects on his tumultuous relationship with his young wife, who has recently taken her own life. Through a series of fragmented memories and inner monologues, he grapples with the guilt, pride, and misunderstandings that plagued their marriage. As he delves deeper into his own psyche, he confronts the harsh realities of his controlling nature and the emotional distance that ultimately led to her tragic decision. The narrative unfolds as a haunting exploration of love, despair, and the human condition, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of the soul.

    The 16951st Greatest Book of All Time

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17. 17. Uncle’s Dream

    

    Set in a small provincial town, the story revolves around the ambitious Maria Alexandrovna, who concocts a scheme to marry her daughter Zina to the wealthy but senile Prince K. The narrative unfolds with a blend of comedy and satire as Maria navigates the town's social dynamics, manipulating and outsmarting the local gossips and rivals. However, the plan is complicated by Zina's own desires and the prince's unpredictable behavior. Through a series of misunderstandings and revelations, the tale explores themes of ambition, deception, and the absurdity of societal pretensions.

    The 17103rd Greatest Book of All Time

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18. 18. Notes From Underground & The Double

    

    In this compelling exploration of the human psyche, the narrative delves into the mind of a disillusioned and isolated man who grapples with his own contradictions and the absurdities of society. The protagonist, a self-proclaimed "underground man," offers a scathing critique of rationalism and the pursuit of self-interest, revealing the complexities of human consciousness and the struggle for authenticity. Alongside this, the story of a man who encounters his doppelgänger unfolds, highlighting themes of identity, duality, and the unsettling nature of self-perception. Together, these tales present a profound meditation on the inner turmoil and existential dilemmas that define the human experience.

    The 16936th Greatest Book of All Time

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19. 19. An Unpleasant Predicament

    

    In this satirical tale, the story unfolds during a wedding reception where a pompous and self-important civil servant, Ivan Ilyich Pralinsky, decides to make an unexpected visit to the home of one of his subordinates, Pseldonimov, who is getting married. Pralinsky, driven by a sudden urge to demonstrate his democratic spirit and benevolence, believes his presence will be a grand gesture of goodwill. However, his arrival disrupts the celebration, leading to a series of awkward and comical situations that highlight the absurdity of social pretensions and the disconnect between societal roles and genuine human connection.

    The 17037th Greatest Book of All Time

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20. 20. The Adolescent

    

    The Adolescent (‹See Tfd›Russian: Подросток, romanized: Podrostok), also translated as A Raw Youth or An Accidental Family, is a novel by Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky, first published in monthly installments in 1875 in the Russian literary magazine Otechestvennye Zapiski. Originally, Dostoevsky had created the work under the title Discord. The novel was not considered to be a success after its publication in Russia, and it is generally thought to be not on the same level as Dostoevsky's other major novels of the period. However, some modern critics value it highly and consider it to be one of his most underestimated works.

21. 21. Winter Notes On Summer Impressions

    

    The book is a reflective travelogue that captures the author's observations and critiques of Western Europe during his visit in the summer of 1862. Through a series of essays, the author offers a candid and often critical analysis of European society, culture, and politics, contrasting them with Russian values and identity. He delves into themes such as the superficiality of European progress, the alienation of individuals in modern society, and the moral and spiritual dilemmas faced by Western civilization. The narrative is infused with the author's philosophical insights and personal reflections, providing a rich commentary on the cultural and ideological differences between Russia and Europe.

22. 22. The Crocodile

    An Extraordinary Incident

    

    In this satirical short story, a man named Ivan Matveich is unexpectedly swallowed whole by a crocodile during a visit to an arcade with his wife, Elena Ivanovna, and a friend, Semyon Semyonitch. Remarkably, Ivan remains alive and well inside the creature, leading to a series of absurd and humorous events as he continues to communicate with the outside world. The story explores themes of bureaucracy, societal norms, and human folly, as Ivan's predicament becomes a spectacle and a subject of public and governmental interest, highlighting the absurdity of human behavior and the indifference of society to individual suffering.

23. 23. The Eternal Husband

    

    The story revolves around the complex psychological and emotional dynamics between two men, Velchaninov and Trusotsky, who are bound by their shared past involving Trusotsky's deceased wife, Natalia. Velchaninov, a self-absorbed and introspective man, is confronted by Trusotsky, the "eternal husband," who is both pitiable and menacing as he grapples with the revelation of his wife's infidelity. As their interactions unfold, themes of guilt, jealousy, and the search for redemption are explored, revealing the intricate and often contradictory nature of human relationships and the enduring impact of past actions on the present.

24. 24. The Best Short Stories Of Fyodor Dostoevsky

    

    This collection offers a glimpse into the profound and intricate world of human psychology and morality, exploring themes of existential angst, redemption, and the complexities of the human soul. Through a series of compelling narratives, readers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own inner conflicts and societal pressures. The stories delve into the depths of human emotion, capturing moments of despair, hope, and introspection, all while reflecting the author's keen insight into the human condition. The tales are rich with philosophical undertones, inviting readers to ponder the nature of good and evil, freedom, and the search for meaning in a turbulent world.
25. 25. The Grand Inquisitor

    A Parable from The Brothers Karamazov

    

    In a profound and thought-provoking narrative, a cardinal in 16th-century Spain confronts a silent Christ who has returned to Earth during the time of the Inquisition. The cardinal, known as the Grand Inquisitor, argues that humanity cannot handle the freedom Christ offers and instead craves security and order, even at the cost of their spiritual autonomy. Through a monologue, he challenges the ideals of faith, freedom, and human nature, revealing a deep cynicism about the human condition and the institutional power of the Church. The encounter becomes a poignant exploration of the tension between spiritual truth and earthly authority.

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26. 26. Novel In Nine Letters

    

    Set in the bustling city of St. Petersburg, this epistolary tale unfolds through a series of letters exchanged between two friends, Ivan and Pyotr. As they navigate the complexities of their personal and professional lives, the correspondence reveals a humorous yet poignant exploration of misunderstandings, societal expectations, and the intricacies of friendship. The narrative cleverly captures the essence of human nature, highlighting the trivialities and absurdities that often accompany everyday interactions, all while offering a satirical glimpse into the social dynamics of 19th-century Russia.

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27. 27. Bobok

    

    In this darkly satirical tale, a disillusioned writer stumbles upon a peculiar cemetery where he overhears the conversations of the recently deceased. As the dead engage in lively discussions, revealing their secrets and regrets, the narrative explores themes of existentialism, morality, and the absurdity of human nature. The story serves as a poignant reflection on the trivialities and vanities of life, as well as the inevitable decay of societal norms, all delivered with a blend of humor and philosophical insight.

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28. 28. The Peasant Marey

    

    Set against the backdrop of a Siberian prison camp, the narrative delves into the introspective musings of a man reflecting on a poignant childhood memory. The protagonist recalls an incident from his youth when he was comforted by a kind-hearted peasant named Marey after a frightful encounter in the woods. This memory becomes a beacon of humanity and compassion, contrasting sharply with the harsh realities of his current imprisonment. Through this recollection, the story explores themes of innocence, empathy, and the enduring impact of kindness in a world often overshadowed by cruelty and suffering.

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29. 29. Poor Folk And Other Stories

    

    Set in the backdrop of 19th-century Russia, this collection of stories delves into the lives of the impoverished and marginalized, exploring themes of social injustice, human suffering, and the quest for dignity amidst adversity. Through a series of poignant narratives, the characters grapple with their harsh realities, revealing the depths of their emotions and the resilience of the human spirit. The stories are a profound commentary on the societal structures that perpetuate poverty and the enduring hope that resides within the human heart.

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30. 30. The Eternal Husband And Other Stories

    

    This collection of stories delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of guilt, obsession, and the intricate dance of power dynamics. The narratives often revolve around characters grappling with their inner demons, societal expectations, and the consequences of their past actions. Through vivid character portrayals and psychological depth, the stories offer a profound reflection on the human condition, capturing the essence of moral dilemmas and the struggle for redemption in a world fraught with emotional turmoil.

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31. 31. Netochka Nezvanova

    

    Set in 19th-century Russia, this unfinished novel delves into the tumultuous life of a young girl who is thrust into a world of emotional and social upheaval. The narrative follows her journey from a troubled childhood, marked by her stepfather's destructive influence, to her struggle for identity and belonging amidst a backdrop of poverty and despair. Through vivid character portrayals and a keen exploration of human psychology, the story captures the complexities of familial relationships and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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32. 32. The Village Of Stepanchikovo

    And Its Inhabitants

    

    Set in a quaint Russian village, this novel explores the intricate dynamics of power, manipulation, and familial duty. The story revolves around a retired colonel who finds his household dominated by the whims of a cunning and self-serving former serf, Foma Fomich. As the colonel's nephew arrives, he becomes entangled in the absurdities and tensions of the household, witnessing the comedic yet poignant struggles of the family as they navigate the influence of Foma's overbearing presence. Through a blend of humor and social commentary, the narrative delves into themes of authority, freedom, and the complexities of human relationships.

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33. 33. Apysakos I

    

34. 34. Apysakos Ii

    

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35. 35. Apysakos Iii

    

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36. 36. A Writer's Diary 1873 1881

    

    This collection of personal reflections, essays, and journal entries offers an intimate glimpse into the mind of a profound thinker during a transformative period in Russian history. The author delves into a wide array of topics, from the intricacies of human psychology and the moral dilemmas of society to the political and cultural shifts of the time. Through a blend of philosophical musings and vivid storytelling, the work captures the essence of a nation on the brink of change, while also revealing the author's own struggles, insights, and evolving worldview.

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37. 37. The House Of The Dead & The Gambler

    

    Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia, this compelling narrative delves into the depths of human suffering and the complexities of the human psyche. The story unfolds through the eyes of a man sentenced to a Siberian penal colony, where he encounters a diverse array of characters, each grappling with their own demons and desires. Through vivid depictions of prison life and the intricate dynamics of gambling, the narrative explores themes of redemption, moral ambiguity, and the relentless pursuit of freedom and meaning in a world fraught with despair and uncertainty.

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38. 38. Dubbelgångaren

    A Petersburg Poem

    

    In this psychological exploration of identity and self-perception, the narrative follows Yakov Petrovich Golyadkin, a low-level government clerk in St. Petersburg, whose life spirals into chaos when he encounters a doppelgänger who embodies all the traits he lacks. As the double begins to infiltrate every aspect of his life, Golyadkin's grip on reality loosens, leading to a profound internal struggle between his desire for acceptance and the fear of being overshadowed. The story delves into themes of existential anxiety, social alienation, and the fragile nature of the human psyche.

39. 39. Fyodor Dostoyevsky

    

    This book delves into the complex and often tumultuous life of a man grappling with the profound questions of morality, faith, and the human condition. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia, it explores the protagonist's internal struggles and philosophical dilemmas as he navigates a world rife with social and political upheaval. Through a rich tapestry of characters and intricate plotlines, the narrative examines themes of redemption, guilt, and the eternal battle between good and evil, offering readers a deep and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.

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40. 40. The Landlady

    

    A young man takes a room in a shabby Saint Petersburg boardinghouse and becomes entangled with its eccentric, possessive landlady, whose intense attention quickly shifts from flattering to controlling. As she reveals an obsessive attachment rooted in a tragic past, his sense of safety erodes and he realizes the relationship is both emotionally suffocating and dangerously manipulative, exposing themes of jealousy, power, and urban isolation.

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41. 41. Notes From Underground/Poor People/The Friend Of The Family

    

    A penetrating portrait of people pushed to society’s margins: a bitter, isolated narrator who dissects his spite and contradictions; impoverished correspondents whose fragile dignity and mutual care reveal the human cost of poverty; and a well-meaning family acquaintance whose misguided charity exposes loneliness and moral blindness. Together the stories examine humiliation, self-deception, compassion, and the psychological torment of conscience, showing how social pressures and inner contradictions shape desperate choices and enduring suffering.

42. 42. Polzunkov

    

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43. 43. Letters Of Fyodor Dostoevsky To His Family And Friends

    

    A compilation of intimate letters that trace the writer’s private life, struggles, and creative process over decades; the correspondence reveals family relationships, financial hardships, health crises, spiritual and political convictions, and responses to contemporary literary events. Through candid everyday details and reflective passages, the letters illuminate how personal experience shaped major fiction, showing warmth, anxiety, humor, and moral urgency while offering a vivid portrait of 19th‑century Russian society and the pressures that influenced his work.

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44. 44. The Heavenly Christmas Tree

    

    A poor, dying child, neglected by those around him, longs for the simple joy of a Christmas tree; as earthly comforts fail him he experiences consolation in a vision of a radiant, heavenly tree where angels welcome and comfort him, offering a moving contrast between human indifference and divine compassion.
45. 45. A Little Hero

    

    A sensitive adolescent living in a stifling provincial household becomes hopelessly infatuated with a neighbor girl and constructs elaborate fantasies of heroism and tragic destiny; his sentimental melancholy and small acts of rebellion are met with misunderstanding and gentle ridicule, creating a satirical yet compassionate portrait of youthful romanticism, arrested development, and the pettiness of provincial society.

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46. 46. The Christmas Tree And The Wedding

    

    A sharp, satirical narrative in which an observer recounts a gaudy children’s holiday entertainment and the wedding that follows, using grotesque detail and ironic contrast to expose the vanity, selfishness and moral emptiness of bourgeois society. The festivities and social rituals once charming in childhood are shown to breed calculation, social climbing and commodified relationships in adulthood, leaving the narrator with a bleak, disillusioned view of human motives and the cost of social ambition.

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47. 47. A Faint Heart

    

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48. 48. Another Man's Wife And A Husband Under The Bed

    

    A brisk comic farce about jealousy and mistaken identity: a suspicious husband hides beneath a bed to spy on his wife, and when an alleged lover and various visitors arrive the resulting misunderstandings, threats of exposure and bungled schemes escalate into absurd chaos that exposes vanity, hypocrisy and human frailty.

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49. 49. Mr. Prohartchin

    

    A timid, self-effacing civil servant cultivates an image of poverty and meekness, scrimping and humiliating himself while denying comforts to those around him; after his sudden death, a hidden hoard of money is discovered that reveals the depths of his secret miserly obsession and forces the office and community to confront themes of hypocrisy, self-deception, and the corrosive effects of fear and shame.

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50. 50. The Permanent Husband

    

    A restless, self-aware man unexpectedly meets the quiet, oddly attentive widower of a woman with whom he once had an affair, and their uneasy reunion becomes a probing psychological duel in which petty humiliations, manipulations and buried secrets surface. The widower’s enigmatic behavior forces the visitor to confront his guilt, vanity and the long-term consequences of past passion, while social masks and jealousies are unpicked with dark irony. The compact tale is a grimly comic, psychological study of obsession, dependency and the inescapable shadows of former ties.

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51. 51. عودة الإنسان

    

    هذا الكتاب رحلة كشف فني وفلسفي في الإنسان، في جوهره المثالي، في قدره التاريخي ومصيره في حاضره ومستقبله، تدشنها عظمة الأفكار واندفاعها، أفكار قلقة، باحثة، جامحة وعصية.يسحرنا غوصه العميق في العالم الإنسان الكبير المسكون بالتضاد، الضاج بالصرعات، مؤسسا لعالم روحي ودنيوي مركزه الإنسان، الإنسان الفاقد كاملة، المتشظي بين النفور وعدم الانسجام، اللاهث دائما وراء الحرية.هذا الكتاب إبحار عذب في أحب " دوستويفسكي " الذي يعد من أهم القمم الأدبية، ومن أولئك الذين لا يموتون ويستطيعون بعث العالم بالكلمة، والذي قيل فيه " إنه المبارك من الرب كي يكشف أمام العالم أسرار الإنسان "

52. 52. Een Lieve Meid

    

    A pawnbroker recounts his marriage to a timid young woman he idealized and attempted to possess; his jealous pride, alternating cruelty and tender impulses, and inability to truly empathize gradually isolate her. Miscommunications and his controlling behavior deepen her despair until she takes her own life, leaving him to confront guilt, remorse, and the painful recognition that his attempts to dominate and 'protect' her prevented any real intimacy or understanding.

53. 53. The Meek One

    

    An older pawnbroker narrates the story of taking in a timid, fragile young woman and marrying her; his possessiveness, condescension, and attempts to ‘protect’ her gradually stifle her, producing silence, withdrawal, and a growing emotional chasm that culminates in her sudden suicide. His account shifts between self-justification and anguished introspection, revealing how control, misunderstanding, loneliness, and moral blindness corrode intimacy and leave him to confront the haunting consequences of his actions.

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54. 54. The House Of The Dead/Poor Folk

    

    A pair of early works traces the human face of suffering and social marginalization: one is an intimate epistolary portrait of impoverished people whose letters reveal humiliation, tenderness, and the crushing effects of bureaucracy and class; the other is a stark, semi-autobiographical account of life in a Siberian penal colony that renders the daily brutality, camaraderie, and small moral awakenings of prisoners, together offering a powerful exploration of dignity, compassion, and the capacity for spiritual endurance amid deprivation.

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55. 55. Der Ewige Ehemann.

    

    A middle-aged man is unexpectedly confronted by a meek but obsessive husband connected to a past affair, and their uneasy encounters spiral into manipulation, humiliation and unraveling secrets; through these tense interactions the narrator's guilt, self-deception and need for possession are exposed, while the story, laced with dark irony, probes jealousy, paternal claims and the destructive persistence of possessive attachments.

56. 56. Dobbeltgængeren

    A Petersburg Poem

    

    A timid St. Petersburg civil servant becomes obsessed with social acceptance; his life is upended when he encounters a double who mimics and then supplants him, courting his colleagues and gradually usurping his identity. As the protagonist's attempts to expose and confront the impostor fail, his behavior grows increasingly erratic and the line between reality and delusion collapses. The story is a darkly comic, satirical exploration of identity, alienation, and the corrosive effects of bureaucracy, culminating in the protagonist's psychological unraveling.

57. 57. Бедные Люди

    

    An intimate epistolary novel that follows the exchanges between an impoverished government clerk and a young seamstress in St. Petersburg, whose letters reveal daily humiliations, small acts of generosity, and the crushing effects of poverty on dignity and human connection. Through their sympathetic, often painful confessions, the narrative exposes social inequality and the fragility of hope as both characters struggle to maintain self-respect amid shrinking options and growing despair. The tone is both tender and bleak, offering a compassionate critique of society's indifference toward the poor.

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58. 58. Le Notti Bianche / L'eterno Marito

    

    A pair of compact, emotionally intense novellas set in St. Petersburg explore the fragile inner lives of men undone by longing, envy and self-deception: one tells of a dreamy solitary who, over a few moonlit nights, falls in love with a young woman whose return to a former lover leaves him devastated by the gap between fantasy and reality; the other is a darker, ironical study of tangled pasts and paternal claims as a besieged man confronts humiliating revelations about his late wife and the mysterious rival who keeps reappearing in his life, exposing obsessions, guilt and the uneasy moral compromises of ordinary people.

59. 59. Umiliati E Offesi

    

    A compassionate, idealistic narrator becomes entangled in the lives of several suffering people—a young woman betrayed and ruined by a manipulative aristocrat, an impoverished family torn apart by pride and deceit, and a fragile child rescued from abuse—while trying to offer shelter and moral support. Through their personal tragedies and everyday humiliations, the story exposes social hypocrisy and the consequences of selfishness, exploring themes of pity, conscience, sacrifice, and the difficult struggle to do good in a cruel society.

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60. 60. Crime And Punishment / Prestuplenie I Nakazanie

    

    A destitute former student murders an unscrupulous pawnbroker, convinced his theory about extraordinary individuals justifies the act, but the crime plunges him into mounting guilt, feverish paranoia, and moral disintegration as a shrewd investigator closes in; through encounters with a suffering, compassionate woman and the pressures of conscience and law, he is forced to reckon with the spiritual as well as legal consequences of his deed, transforming the act of punishment into a path toward possible moral redemption.

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61. 61. Notes From The Underground / The Gambler

    

    A blistering, confessional monologue by a bitter, alienated narrator who dissect his spite, pride, and perverse resistance to happiness to expose the paradoxes of free will, rationality, and human self-destruction; paired with a tense, fast-paced novella about a young man consumed by gambling at a European resort, where obsession, vanity, and debt unravel social pretenses and adulterate love and honor.

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