Join us on a literary world trip!
Add this book to bookshelf
Grey
Write a new comment Default profile 50px
Grey
Subscribe to read the full book or read the first pages for free!
I want to read the book!
All characters reduced
NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND - Enriched edition The Unabridged Garnett Translation - cover

NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND - Enriched edition The Unabridged Garnett Translation

Fyodor Dostoevsky

Publisher: DigiCat

  • 0
  • 0
  • 0

Summary

In "Notes from Underground," Fyodor Dostoevsky presents a groundbreaking exploration of the human psyche through the lens of an unnamed narrator, often referred to as the Underground Man. This novella is distinguished by its introspective and often fragmented narrative style, reflecting existential angst and moral ambiguity. Written in the context of 19th-century Russian society, the text critiques rational egoism and utopianism, embodying a duality of nihilism and an intense yearning for meaning. Through the Underground Man's confessions, the novel delves into themes of isolation, free will, and the conflict between the individual and societal norms, establishing a poignant critique of both self and society. Dostoevsky, a prominent figure of the literary canon, drew from his own turbulent experiences—including imprisonment and a deep grappling with faith and doubt—to craft this seminal piece. His struggles with philosophical inquiries and mental health allowed him to resonate profoundly with the introspective narratives present in this work. The novella serves as a precursor to his later masterpieces, establishing a foundation for psychological realism and existential inquiry prevalent in modern literature. "Notes from Underground" is an essential reading for those seeking to understand the complexities of human nature and the foundational ideas of existential philosophy. It invites readers to confront the deeper questions of life and morality posed by one of history's most significant literary figures, making it a critical piece not just in Russian literature, but in the global literary landscape.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Available since: 12/24/2023.
Print length: 233 pages.

Other books that might interest you

  • Christmas Every Day - From their pens to your ears genius in every story - cover

    Christmas Every Day - From their...

    William Dean Howells

    • 0
    • 0
    • 0 
    The bookshelves of American literature are incredible collections that have gathered together centuries of very talented authors.  From this continent their fame spread and whilst among their number many are now forgotten or neglected their talents endure.  Among them is William Dean Howells.
    Show book
  • No Thoroughfare - cover

    No Thoroughfare

    Wilkie Collins, Charles Dickens

    • 0
    • 0
    • 0 
    Walter Wilding has lived his life secure in the knowledge that he was the son of his mother. But a chance encounter shocks him to his deathbed, leaving his friend and Executor George Vendale charged with the finding of the real Walter Wilding. Meanwhile, George pitches woo to Margerite Obenreizer, but has to deal with her dastardly guardian and uncle. The story twists and turns from the wine cellars of England, to Soho and then to the Alps of Switzerland, where George discovers that Mr Obenreizer is right about one thing to the last... "So little is the world, that one cannot keep away from persons." Originally written as a stage play by Wilkie Collins and Charles Dickens, it was later turned into a collaborative novel by the two.  
Narrated by Michael Ward.
    Show book
  • A Christmas Carol - cover

    A Christmas Carol

    Charles Dickens

    • 0
    • 0
    • 0 
    Step into the timeless world of A Christmas Carol, a masterpiece of redemption and transformation that has captivated readers for generations. This enchanting story follows the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and cold-hearted man who values wealth above all else. On one fateful Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by three spirits—the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come—who reveal the profound impact of his actions on himself and others. 
Through vivid storytelling and memorable characters, you’ll experience the joy, warmth, and spirit of the holiday season. Witness Scrooge's remarkable transformation as he learns the true meaning of generosity, compassion, and love. This audiobook is not just a tale about Christmas; it’s a story of hope and second chances that resonates with the human spirit. 
Perfect for listeners of all ages, A Christmas Carol is a journey into self-reflection and a celebration of the magic that kindness can bring to the world. Let the rich narration and the heartwarming lessons of this classic bring a touch of holiday spirit to your ears and your heart.
    Show book
  • The Adventure of the Abbey Grange - cover

    The Adventure of the Abbey Grange

    Arthur Conan Doyle

    • 0
    • 0
    • 0 
    The Adventure of the Abbey Grange, one of the 56 Sherlock Holmes short stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, is one of 13 stories in the cycle collected as The Return of Sherlock Holmes.Holmes wakes Doctor Watson up early one winter morning to rush to a murder scene at the Abbey Grange near Chislehurst. Sir Eustace Brackenstall has been killed, apparently by burglars. Inspector Stanley Hopkins believes that it was the infamous Randall gang who have committed several other burglaries in the neighborhood.Holmes and Watson arrive at Abbey Grange. There, Lady Brackenstall tells Holmes that her marriage was not happy. Sir Eustace Brackenstall was a violent, abusive drunkard. She then tells that about 11 o'clock, in the dining room, she encountered an elderly man coming in the French window, followed by two younger men. The older man struck her in the face, knocking her out. When she came to, she was tied to an oaken chair with the bellrope, which they had torn down, and gagged. Then Sir Eustace came into the room, and rushed at the intruders. One of them struck and killed him with a poker. Lady Brackenstall fainted again for a minute or two. She saw the intruders drinking wine from a bottle taken from the sideboard. Then they left, taking some silver plate...Famous works of the author Arthur Conan Doyle: A Study in Scarlet, The Sign of the Four, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Return of Sherlock Holmes, The Valley of Fear, His Last Bow, The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes, Stories of Sherlock Holmes, The Lost World.
    Show book
  • The Eternal Moment and Other Stories - cover

    The Eternal Moment and Other...

    E. M. Forster

    • 0
    • 0
    • 0 
    This collection of short stories from E. M. Forster contains six tales that were initially written between 1903 and 1912.

Many of these stories, including the modern classic 'The Machine Stops' - which is set in a world where humanity lives underground and relies on a giant machine to provide its needs - deal with science fiction and supernatural themes.
    Show book
  • The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man - cover

    The Autobiography of an...

    James Weldon Johnson

    • 0
    • 0
    • 0 
    "I buried my past... but at what cost to my soul?"

Our narrator is a man of dual heritage—gifted, light-skinned, and acutely observant. Born into a world defined by the "color line," he possesses the unique and dangerous ability to move between the Black and White worlds. From the smoking rooms of high-society New York to the gambling dens of the South, and from the birth of Ragtime to the horrific reality of a public lynching, his journey is a panoramic view of the American racial landscape at the turn of the century. Ultimately, he chooses to "pass" as a white man for the sake of safety and success, but he finds that his "great secret" is a burden that leaves him feeling like an unfaithful witness to his own life.

A Masterclass in Irony and Ambiguity: James Weldon Johnson's narrator is not a typical hero. He is a "flâneur"—a detached observer who often prioritizes self-preservation over solidarity. This narrative choice allows the reader to see the subtle, insidious ways that systemic racism forces individuals to fragment their own identities just to survive.

The Soundtrack of a Changing Nation: The novel is famous for its early and insightful treatment of Ragtime. The narrator, a talented pianist, views the music as a profound contribution to world culture, yet he eventually abandons his dream of elevating Black folk music into classical forms, choosing instead a life of quiet, white-collar invisibility.

Why It Is a Revolutionary Classic: Published before the height of the Harlem Renaissance, this novel shattered the sentimental stereotypes of its time. It is a cold-eyed look at the "privilege" of whiteness and the profound sense of loss that comes with abandoning one's heritage. It remains a vital text for understanding the "double consciousness" of the American experience.

Step behind the mask. Purchase "The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man" today.
    Show book