"The Grand Inquisitor" is a philosophical narrative within Fyodor Dostoevsky's novel "The Brothers Karamazov," where Jesus returns during the Spanish Inquisition and is confronted by the Grand Inquisitor. The Inquisitor argues that Jesus's gift of free will is too burdensome for humanity, as people prefer security over freedom. This parable captures Dostoevsky's deep reflections on the tension between individual liberty and the desire for societal order, posing complex questions about authority, faith, and human nature.
In "The House of the Dead," Dostoevsky draws from his own experiences in a Siberian prison camp to depict the harsh realities of penal servitude. The protagonist, Aleksandr Goryanchikov, witnesses the brutal treatment of convicts, yet also moments of camaraderie and humanity, offering insight into resilience amid suffering. In "The Permanent Husband," Dostoevsky tells the story of Pavel Pavlovich Trusotsky, who struggles with jealousy and a desire for vengeance after learning of his wife's betrayal. The novella delves into themes of obsession, moral decay, and the complexity of human relationships, showcasing Dostoevsky's psychological depth and his exploration of human contradictions.