How to Read Dostoyevsky's The Brothers Karamazov

📚 Read Dostoyevsky with Hardcore Literature: / hardcoreliterature
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0:00 how to read The Brothers Karamazov
1:41 the history of Dostoyevsky’s masterpiece
2:23 Freud on Dostoyevsky’s novel
3:09 famous fans of The Brothers Karamazov
3:52 treat the novel as philosophical dialogue
4:40 the characters of Dostoyevsky
6:30 polyphonics & composing in voices
7:41 how to converse with Dostoyevsky
8:38 the theme of fathers & sons
9:22 Dostoyevsky’s personal tragedy
11:00 the social concerns of Dostoyevsky
12:45 parricide at the heart of the novel
13:40 all Karamazovs are the same
15:21 the Golden Era of Russia Literature
17:50 on Dostoyevsky’s exile
18:37 learning about Dostoyevsky’s life
19:07 Christ vs the Grand Inquisitor
22:50 on the burden of free will
25:00 the power of divine love
29:00 reason vs religious faith
33:11 treat the novel as spiritual vision
34:40 Dostoyevsky’s biblical allusions
37:10 on the King James Bible
39:00 Dostoyevsky and religion
41:30 novel as imperative to divinely love
43:20 the best translation of Dostoyevsky
45:01 pacing your reading of this novel
46:50 share your reading with others
47:45 meaningful reading & living great books
48:10 thank you & questions for you

[@dom_mld]

“There is one other book, that can teach you everything you need to know about life... it's The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky, but that's not enough anymore.” - Kurt Vonnegut, Slaughterhouse-5

[@DaveKaramazov]

As a young man I started this novel a couple of times, only to abandon it each time. Now, in my fifties, I am finally approaching the end of The Brothers Karamazov. It has been a wonderful undertaking; I have been thoroughly enriched. It may very well be the most magnificent novel I have ever read.

[@shresthachatterjee1707]

Same...been trying to read it since I was 20 and now at 27 it finally makes sense

[@DaveKaramazov]

@@shresthachatterjee1707 Yes, at last. Good for you!

[@tacobottle4217]

remind me in 30 years, then you might actually get it @@shresthachatterjee1707

[@DanielGenis5000]

The best novel written. When I read this, I decided to give up on writing, as there could be nothing better than this work of genius. I read it in Russian, which makes it even more imposing. I ended up writing after all, but this work was a journey through hell and earth.

[@GTurl]

Brothers Karamazov is not just a novel/book, it is the world we live in, our lives. There are so many conflicts, bringing so many questions, topics...it can take you a lifetime if you want to resolve only a couple of them(for yourself). When I read the book, I was just blown away. I was analyzing it for two weeks. I read it last year, and still thinking about it and telling my friends about it. It is good if you have someone close to you to have a discussion about it. The analysis is great, by the way.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

Fun Fact: Marilyn Monroe wanted to play Grushenka in ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ in an adaptation of the novel.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That would have been incredible! :)

[@vrraeel]

Always a woman to me.....

[@chickencharlie1992]

The studio heads said no even though they didn't know who the character was or had even read the book they just didn't think she could act in something serious

[@cheriepeden6384]

She played the part at the Actors Studio in rehearsal I think and she was well cast, but I don't think it went any further.

[@tommiller3017]

She was a voracious reader and most likely read the book. She was not the dumb blonde she portrayed.

[@Whee234]

48:55 In high school I was sitting broken hearted on the back step, having been left by my bf the previous week. My next door neighbor was pegging out her large family’s washing and noticed me there. She must have known my situation by osmosis as the bf was a friend of her son. She was a high school English teacher and also a devout Catholic. She offhandedly yelled out of the blue across the back yards, ”Have you tried reading The Brothers Karamazov?” Thus began my reading of great Russian novels and beyond which were a great help indeed.

[@jessebrennan7130]

That's so cool

[@RRScott-uz1lg]

So glad to see a new video Ben! You’re easily one of the finest KZbinrs/podcasters when it comes to literature. Your knowledge and passion shine through and make every topic rich and joyful to take in. I owe you a pint!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much!! That is so incredibly kind of you. I really appreciate you being here with me, my friend. Cheers! 🍻 🙏

[@RRScott-uz1lg]

​@@BenjaminMcEvoy I'm not sure where else to ask you questions, so hopefully you see this here - even if it is off-topic. Do you ever read George Gissing? I have discovered some of his work recently and I think he is one of the finest English writers. Apparently Orwell thought so, too. I would love for you to discuss some of his work some time, either here or on your podcast. Thanks very much!

[@viktormagnusson9602]

Read this for the first time when I was 22 and I’m now looking forward to reread it again at 24. It has really had a profound impact on my life, especially my perspective on interactions with the closest people in my life. My significant other Rebecca comes to mind, she was there for the first read and is here again for the second one. I hope for everyone to discover the treasure that is this book in regards to doing the best you can to be a good person despite life’s suffering and hardships

[@jaye2491]

The Brothers Karamazov is undoubtedly my favourite novel of all time. Multiple translations, re-reads, it's just absolute perfection. Only three stories until I have finished Dostoevsky's complete works, he is a fascinating human being, and has some truly unique abilities. Great video like always mate ☺️

[@dggjr1759]

Which translation would you recommend?

[@jaye2491]

@@dggjr1759 I think it's a close call for P&V and McDuff for me. P&V is definitely best for a person's first read, but McDuff was brilliant as a re-read. Some people may only have access to the Garnett translation too, and I definitely enjoyed her translation, although as Ben said, she sounds more like herself a lot.

[@BlueArcStreaming]

I read it when hospitalized recovering from psychosis, in a psych ward - for me the book was food for the mind, it brought me out of confusion.

[@KindleAndCoffeeCups]

The Brothers Karamazov was a deep, slow read during a dark night of the soul for me. I was forever changed. Unlike Crime and Punishment (which felt overwhelmingly claustrophobic- but deeply moving), The Brothers put me into an intense reflective state about existence, God, life, meaning, purpose, "right/wrong". A powerfully moving work that demands to be returned to. Great video Ben, per usual. Always quality content on this channel. Happy deep reading 📕

[@hopefortheworld5296]

I agree it’s a great book during “a dark night of the soul “

[@malekdabbous7629]

Are both books difficult to read and understand? Is the writing heavy or very absorbable?

[@KindleAndCoffeeCups]

@@malekdabbous7629 I personally don't find either difficult, but they both benefit from a slow and deep reading. I mean, take your time and really LIVE with the novels. Reflect often. Journal about your thoughts. They both brought up themes of right/wrong... honesty... duty... family. Hope this helps. Happy reading!

[@malekdabbous7629]

Wow amazing can’t wait, thanks for the tips! I’m starting my first Dost. book which is The House of the Dead , it’s a semi-autobiography about his 5 yrs spent in a Siberian prison, then will read Crimes n Punishment, then will move to The Brothers K.

[@malekdabbous7629]

@@KindleAndCoffeeCupslast question I promise 😀. Do I need to read crime n punishment before The Brothers K?

[@baronessbooks9909]

Thank you Benjamin you have brightened my world. Only just found you but read War and Peace last year, and will be following along with Brothers. Your work pointed out why I so thoroughly enjoyed “Les Misérables” in 2021 and needed to return to important works. On a retirement budget but I can contribute by watching liking and commenting on U tube. I will also share with grandson. I told him I went out and bought Middlemarch and am reading that now. Going back to my roots as I know I read Plato, Aristotle and Shakespeare as a teen. Regards from Florida

[@omidfazeli2334]

I am 300 pages into the book and really been enjoying it. I had been thinking about delaying reading this book since I thought there was a chance of you creating a how to read video about it. Then again, I started it about two weeks ago and so glad that I can watch this video now. I really appreciate your videos, the time and passion you put in making such great content. Keep up the great work.

[@aryamannmastana9615]

This video gets uploaded right at the perfect time for me, I have recently picked up The Brothers Karamazov. I've been itching to start reading it, but was putting it off a bit because of some other works I started reading. This will serve as an excellent addition to the reading experience, thank you so much Benjamin for all the work you do! I absolutely adore your videos.

[@kevindavis3234]

I think I enjoy rereading 'Crime & Punishment' more, but there's not much doubt that this is Dostoevsky's magnum opus. It's actually been about five years since I last read it, so it might be time to revisit it. As an aside, I had no idea that this was supposed to be a part one. What a shame that we never got the rest of the story.

[@umara1015]

This video definitely came at the right time! I was literally in downtown Toronto less than a week ago scouring used bookstores for books by Dostoyevsky. I just bought The Brothers Karamazov. I've decided that when I'm done with all of Dickens' novels, Dostoyevsky will certainly be the next author I do a deep dive into. I'm looking forward to it!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

The magic of serendipity :) I love when that happens! Dickens and Dostoyevsky are two perfect authors for deep-diving into. I’m so excited to hear that you’re doing that, Umar! I’m reading through the complete works of Dickens chronologically myself at the moment. So much fun!

[@sebisoymus2807]

Aaah! I am so grateful for these long form videos! Even though I am not following the book club (I began digging through Ulysses back in November and I'm just past chapter 5), it is so comforting to see the occasional videos pop up and be so long that I can happily rewatch them a few times (as I'm bound to miss a point or two the first time around). Keep up the good work, and wish you the best!

[@elizabethmurphy3931]

Thank you for this. It is great to see a new video from you. it has been many years since I have read The Brothers Karamazov, and now you have given me the desire to read it again. I am so glad you have given recommendations from the Bible. As usual, you have given fabulous insight.

[@michaelmullard4292]

Dear Ben: I wish that I had time to participate in the Book Club and read Dostoevsky along with you all. But your brilliant and inspiring video has inspired me to pick up the book for my Lenten reading. As a Jungian-oriented clinician, I am excited to examine the archetypal emanations found in the text. I am sure that it will be a life changing feast and a perfect Lenten discipline along with a deep reading of the Bible via Lectio Divina. Many blessings!

[@theresewalters1696]

Just discovered this. I have attempted a read many years ago. Now at 65, I am ready to begin again. It was the most fascinating thing I had ever attempted to read ever and for the reasons you speak of. The many voices that conflict were representations of those I had struggled with at different stages of my life. It's good to be in the company of others enjoying this classic as well.

[@Michajeru]

This has been the most impressive and indeed beautiful KZbin book video I have ever experienced. I recently read the book and loved it. But I now realise that I need to reread it. Slowly this time. Thank you for your wonderful videos.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much :) You’ve completely made my day! I really appreciate you, my friend. I hope your deep reread is rewarding 🙏

[@hxnoelle]

This video was posted only a few days after I finally started this book, perfectly timed. I'm currently taking an "Intro to Religion" class for college, and my professor has referenced this book and The Grand Inquisitor multiple times 🙂

[@mad3leine]

Saved this video to watch it several times. You have a great way of explaining! I am reading this book for the first time and I am already in love with it. It has so much to discuss and I think one can read it a hundred times and still get new understanding from it!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, Madeleine! I really appreciate that :) And I'm so happy to hear you're already in love with Dostoyevsky's masterpiece. It's extraordinary, isn't it? The Brothers Karamazov is definitely one of those books you can read a hundred times and always get something more from it. Incredible work!

[@arongil]

Thank you so much for this introduction to The Brothers Karamazov. It's just what I was looking for so I wouldn't fly blind. I plan to apply each of your deep reading techniques as I tackle the book this coming month. I'll also read the Book of Job since it seems relevant! I'm separately also reading Shakespeare this summer. It's good to know there's a community at the Hardcore Literature club reading Shakespeare this year as well.

[@matthewgallant3622]

I’m about halfway through this book, on the part where Alyosha’s elder tells his life story, specifically the story of the duel and the man who approaches him living with a murder he got away with. The exploration of these men’s thought processes is so incredible. I can’t help but see myself in both these men and wonder in situations of my life how to live with myself or not. How to make amends, how to have made that different decision the elder made. This is not just probably the best novel I’ve ever read, it is THE novel. I’ll be pondering this book for a long time.

[@tomate8942]

Just finished Crime and Punishment, so I'm really looking forward to dive in this one as well. Just at the right time, thanks for the reading motivation!

[@Roland96351]

Listened to the audiobook last year, but this inspires me to go back to it. This time I want to read it with more of an open mind to who I really am. Thanks for the video, I love your channel.

[@raisaparkhomenko9411]

Thank you very much!!! When I fist read the novel (in my youth) two things struck me. First, the light and joyful spirit of dying starez Zosima's brother. And the death of the boy Ilyusha. I wanted with all my heart for him to be heald but no... Then I came back to the novel severel times. Suddenly in my 50-th I found that the book has a happy end. Despite of Ilyusha's death the deep and kind relationship between him, his family and the boys who had transformed from enemies to friends the final pages are fulll of hope.

[@DouglasBelt]

By far the best reading experience I’ve ever had was reading this book with my best friend over the course of 8 weeks last year, I even have a copy of “The Contemplator”, the painting referenced early in the book hanging in my living room to commemorate the time.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That does sound like a very special reading experience! Great books like The Brothers Karamazov are definitely all the more profound when enjoyed with friends :)

[@DouglasBelt]

@@Yesica1993 he lives in New York and I live in Dallas, we would read on our own during the week and do a video chat over coffee on Saturday mornings to discuss and compare notes.

[@kevinrosero9723]

I plan to start this book soon and I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed this video. You bring in so many things and discuss everything so passionately that it's inspiring. Especially enjoyed your discussion of the Bible and the biblical background of Brothers K.

[@amv_books_and_films]

I’m following your 2023 book club and posting reviews. Oh my! How this novel stayed with me and the ideas within! I was completely captured by the notion of total responsibility to all, for all. Terrifying! Thank you for all you put into your videos!

[@benjaminhalilovic8663]

What a great video. It absolutely motivated me to start reading the book. Keep it up Ben!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Ben! I’d love to hear what you make of Dostoyevsky’s masterpiece :)

[@courtneybernard1153]

What another amazing video, so throughly researched and the passion you have for literature is infeciousious. I just finined War and Peace and was looking for my next read and I think I have found it. Looking forward to continuing my journey into the greatest Russian literature.

[@thehoneyreads]

Happy Belated Birthday Ben! 🥳 Great timing, I’ll be picking up The Brothers Karamazov in the next few months! I just got my copy in the mail.🙂

[@christophervanasse9911]

How crazy is it that a poor gambler from the wrong side of the tracks happened to be the finest and most complex novelist of all time?? He understood people more than any other writer I've ever encountered and knew what to tell us. Thanks for the awesome video Ben.

[@thelaurels13]

Another fantastic video, Ben. I’m a day late getting to this - I’m usually clicking on any new videos by you very quickly. I’m thinking once I get through Anna Karenina I’ll start The Brothers Karamazov. Your tutorials here help massively and I’m finding these big books less and less intimidating. Thank you once again for not only your knowledge and tips, but your passion for these books. It’s wonderful to see. 🙌😊

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much! That really means the world to me :) I'm actually just about to embark upon a reread of Anna Karenina myself. I was feeling sad at the prospect of leaving Tolstoy after War and Peace, so decided now would be perfect to revisit Levin and Anna and the rest of the gang!

[@thelaurels13]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy Fantastic! I’m a third of the way through Anna, and I have to say it’s thus far one of the best books I’ve read for sure. Hope you do another video if you do decide to re-read. Many thanks. Samee.

[@BlondeMcGuinn]

Hi Benjamin, I watched you awhile ago and found you passionate about literature, same as me. I started watching and rewatching you again a few weeks ago. I love how you discuss books and break them down. Your passion for literature is so infectious I was inspired to wade into the deep end by buying a bunch of your recommendations with my tax returns. I plan on reading War and Peace, Pride & Prejudice, Bleak House, Crime and Punishment, Don Quixote and many others in the near future. Thank you for your passion and for sharing it here.

[@ronjohnson9690]

Benjamin is great, my first introduction to his channel. Anyone more passionate about literature and Faith instead of his own face is very refreshing.

[@marianapgar4409]

Another marvelous, brilliant, inspiring talk about a great work of literature. Thank you so much, Ben!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Marian! I really appreciate that 😊

[@GraceMed]

I had this book on my list of classics to be read later this year, but after watching this video, it's going to be the next book after I complete the one I'm presently reading. 🙂 I read "Anna Karenina" because of your video on it, and am presently reading "Clarissa" for the same reason. 🙂Funny thing with "Clarissa"; I planned to read it over the course of several months, while reading other books simultaneously. But right from the start, it captivated me so much that I am halfway through it in less then 2 weeks,lol And haven't touched another book, lol I am very pleasantly surprised I might say, because I'm not usually into epistolary type of books, but I'm now open minded in reading other books of the same style. I love your passion for the great classics! And the excellent and thorough work you put into these videos!

[@callum7081]

The brothers karamazov is a masterpiece. I believe everyone would benefit in some way from a reading of it.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I completely agree! An absolute must-read for everyone :)

[@sonaschmidt-harris7416]

Thank you for this wonderful KZbin channel. I started the Constance Gardner translation of The Brothers Karamazov. Looking forward to more!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much for watching! I really appreciate you being here, and I'd love to know what you make of TBK :)

[@TheReadWellPodcast]

Wow, that was a fantastic video. So much meat here. I just finished the book and now I want to read it again. I’m looking forward to the second go, but before I do, I’ll be watching this a few more times. Well done.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

It’s nice to see a video from you again. Hope you’re doing well!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, my friend! I hope you’re keeping well too 😊

[@PokhrajRoy.]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy Yes, I’m well!

[@kriskringlereads]

Thank you so much for this video, Benjamin! 💛 I am about to start my second read of this book, the first time I read it was 20 years ago. To be honest, I remember very little, but seeing as I’m older and hopefully more mature this time around, I hope to get more out of it. Your tips and thoughts are really, really helpful, and I’m excited to get started! 😌

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so thrilled to hear you're embarking on your second reading :) After 20 years, you'll have so much life experience to bring to the work! I'd love to hear what you make of it this time around!

[@olgaotherstories8355]

When I finished reading Karamazovs, two months ago, it was a moment of Before and After. A very strange emotion, made me rather sensitive to the world and people, on top of being already a very sensitive person towards all the things around me. But it was a magical thing to happen. I was so happy to see that u posted this video, and also discovered that I had understood this book very close to your interpretation. I called Aljesha the Jesus. I thought that Ivan had it the hardest of all. Because Dmitrij got it out of himself by his outbursts of most extreme passions, Aljesha through profound love for another but Ivan had this immense struggle which he couldn’t even express to himself. He was absolutely torn within. This book is almost sacred to me, I don’t think I could discuss it in a group. But I just wanted to give you a small feed back because I so appreciate your vision.

[@the_eerie_faerie_tales]

Going to be reading this for a book club in May and someone in the comments there mentioned your helpful video! thank you!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so grateful for them sending you here :) I'd love to hear what you make of The Brothers Karamazov in May! It's a wild ride!

[@crespojosef]

What a fascinating book review, I've had this book in my possession for years, and I just started it a few days ago. I have Garnets version. Thank you.

[@alexlowe4100]

What an astonishing video. I’m going to have to read this novel once I finish great expectations.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, Alex :) Dostoyevsky is such a great writer to follow on from Dickens! I’d be very keen to hear what you make of The Brothers Karamazov!

[@Khatoon170]

Fyodor Dostoevsky ( 1821- 1881) he was Russian novelist, short story writer, essayist, journalist. His literary movement realism, philosophy, personality psychology. His notable works notes from underground, crime and punishment,idiot ,demons , brothers karamazov. Thank you for giving us chance to read learn new information. Iam so sorry to be little long but reading and writing both are great ways to improve our English language as none native speakers. Best wishes for you your family friends.

[@jennyaldridge4186]

I’m so looking forward to discussing this book with you snd the Hardcore Literature Book Club Ben and have jumped ahead and started reading it. I loved War and Peace but In comparison this is a real rollercoaster compared to the pleasant train ride Tolstoy takes us on with his characters. There’s so much to ponder on in just the first 70 pages that I’ve read. If this continues it will be like reading 3 Tolstoy novels.

[@giovannabuffini4434]

Read very early in my youth "Brother Karamazov". Had great impression, like to descouver a new life in my life. Something huge in depth. At the same time, as you said, a microcosmo of an entire humanity. Read again later, have been sure to be in front of one of greatest masterpiece. A novel that changes yourself in relation with life. You explain about letterature in a wonderful griping way, through a melodious ipnotic good English never heard before. Thank you.

[@josephohora1287]

You have the gift of describing difficult ideas into the hope that I can tackle any book

[@readlikeaman]

Benjamin, your channel is one of my favorites on KZbin and I LOVE these videos man! You inspired me to start my own chancel and as soon as I’ve got some extra $ I’m gonna be joining you HL book club. Thanks so much for all you do and keep up the great work!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Wow! Thank you, Paige :) I'm so honoured by your incredibly kind words, my friend. Your channel is superb! Fantastic choice of books and I love your presentation. I've just subscribed and am looking forward to seeing more!

[@readlikeaman]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy I can't even tell you how honored I am that you'd take the time to look at my channel! You just made my entire month man! :D thank you so much!

[@sandrashepherd6005]

Hello,I am listening to your lectures to more fully understand how to study the wonderful books that I read in the past, about sixty years ago I read the Brothers Karamazov and reading to me was pick the book off the shelf and read it. No deep reading involved.I look forward to the challenge presented by your thought provoking lectures. Thank you

[@rishavsingh9216]

Hey Benjamin your videos serve as the best guide when it comes to discussing great and complex literature. Love from India♥️♥️♥️

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Rishav! I really appreciate that :) Happy reading in beautiful India 🙏 🇮🇳

[@thorngarden5252]

Love your videos! I was so excited to get a notification that there was a new one 😊

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate you watching 🙏☺️

[@dinka-li]

What an absolutely deep and full of love and passion work! Thank you so much for this video! I'm sorry, my English is not so good so I'm afraid of making mistakes in this comment. But you definitely help me to improve my listening English and I can't put in words how grateful I am. I want to say thanks for showing your audience masterpieces of Russian painting. My heart trembles every time I see these works, all of them touch the soul so much. By the way in this video you used Christ in the Desert by Kramskoi (1872) and Portrait of Dostoevsky by Perov (also 1872). And as we can see the poses are the same. It because Perov wanted to draw an analogy between Dostoevsky and Kramskoi's Christ. Also fun fact of Repin (you shared Arrest of a Propagandist, Barge Haulers on the Volga, Portrait of V.M.Garshin): he was forbidden to visit Tretyakov gallery because he was always unsatisfied with his paintings and endlessly came to the exhibition to redraw his works 😂 And The Vision to the Youth Bartholomew by Nesterov is absolutely adorable and mesmerizing! Ok, it's time to go to the museum, I guess ❤ and read Brothers Karamazov of course 🙏🏻

[@carolels2069]

Ben...This a remarkable! Especially for someone so young. You have AMAZING insight which you articulate so succinctly. Thank You!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Carol!! That is so kind of you :)🙏

[@---os6eb]

Thanks a lot for your videos! I watch them with great pleasure. My mother tongue is Russian so I read a lot in Russian but I try to read English authors in original. You inspire me to read more📚😊

[@booshkoosh7994]

Thank you, Benjamin! You're always a great help to unlocking the riches of literature! :)

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you very much!! :)

[@booshkoosh7994]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy Your Welcome! You are truly one of my great influences, -- a hero. You have cleared the way to great works that have made me, and are making me. I don't think I would have made it so far, had it not been for your help. I'm looking forward to this year, and all that is to come! :)

[@angierodriguez4729]

This video has been incredibly helpful, thank you :) God bless.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so happy to hear that, Angie! Thank you! God bless you too :) 🙏

[@user-kv4fe5do7h]

Ben omg your summary of the BROTHERS is just brilliant thank you so much Andrew from Warrington

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Andrew! I really appreciate that :)

[@jazzforpeace]

Wow! You really did an amazing job with this Benjamin congratulations!!!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate that :)

[@KeemV]

This video came out in such a perfect time, I just got the book and very excited now

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Nice one! I'd love to know what you make of it :)

[@Reinhardisbetter]

Needed this video so goddamn much,i bought both W&P and TBK weeks ago havent touched em yet, i needed a guide or atleast some tips to tackle through those giants well thanks for this vid(and the W&P one)

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Nice one on picking up those two masterpieces! You have some exciting literary adventures ahead of you now :) I’d love to hear what you make of Tolstoy and Dostoyevsky!

[@GuitarCoast]

This must be the best channel about books!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate that :)

[@lorenzbroll101]

You really do have a wonderful mind! To go into this existentialism at this depth is really beyond most.

[@felicityyoon2612]

Wow, this has covered all the essence of the book. I am so glad of the new video. So much to learn. Thank You.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Felicity! I really appreciate that 🙏

[@LilaCerullos]

You're my favorite to look out for good literature, thank u so much for your amazing work.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Casey :) I really appreciate that so much!

[@speeden7553]

I have just bought the book and it will arrive on thursday, cant wait to dig in. Your tips and facts are going to be very useful. Thank you for making this video. 👍😊

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so happy to hear that! I'd really love to know what you make of the book, my friend. And thank you so much for watching :)

[@speeden7553]

I ordered the penguin classic, mainly because it has the most beautiful cover . Whats your thought on it? Thanks cant wait to tell you wich character im identifying as.

[@speeden7553]

Finished it today. Only 5 months later 🫠

[@juliasampaio3364]

if there's one book in the world that I'm afraid of is this one 😂 this video is most certainty helpful (as always!). I liked to hear you talk about Bakthin, my father is a linguistic professor and he specialized in his work, so you could say I'm very partial to this subject, as I'm starting to study linguistics too! Well I think you finally convinced me to read Brothers Karamazov...

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That is so cool, Julia! You’re in such a fantastic position with your father being a linguistics professor. It really is such an incredibly fascinating area of study. I’d love to hear what you make of The Brothers Karamazov. It’s a little daunting, but once you meet the characters and settle into the world, you’ll love it :)

[@rossgopicotrain4042]

Bakhtin's, 'The Problems of Dostoevsky's Poetics' - and concomitant concept of the polyphonic novel, is a must-read for anybody who's half-serious about the profundity & perfectibility of Sir 'D's' works including but, of course, not limited to: Brothers Karamazov!

[@briancoveney3080]

i have been planning on reading this one this year, finally. This one, like Ulysses, which I also finally surmounted in February, will be conquered this year. Then I will "know" what they've been talking about all this time. with books like this, once you finish it, it's not a mystery anymore. Like when I got Blood Meridian read completely, I just "knew" what they meant when they were talking about it years ago. Now I can consider the ideas held within it. Ulysses as well. That was probably the most rewarding one to have really finished. I think I'll get this one begun in May. Thank you for this video. I had been hoping you would do this. I'm reading The Stranger- Camus right now and then I think I'm going for Kafka On The Shore- Murakami. As always, Peace Bra'

[@evanlopez241]

The greatest novel ever written! I did my college application essay on this book!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Powerful and impressive choice of work for your application essay right there, Evan!!

[@eggmagic3318]

Excellent video lecture and an excellent book. I struggled a bit with the dustiness of the prose but the characters were compelling and incredibly human. The ending was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever read. But don’t think I’ll have the patience to read it again as it’s a monster and life is too short and there are too many other books out there.

[@SydH171]

Kam Bro's is the biggest book I ever read ,thought it would never end,and when it did ,I wished it had just started. A great work of art.

[@yaldaebrm4341]

This was great. I actually shed some tears when you were talking about faith.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Yalda :) 🙏

[@jondspen]

About to start on this - figured I would get your take before starting out. I have always had trouble with Russian authors, so wanted to get prepared before starting out. Thanks for your videos - keep 'em coming!

[@LarryHasOpinions]

great analysis, i dare to say I enjoyed your video more than the book itself :D

[@philihareg]

Sir Ben! Great stuff, as always. Thanks!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, my friend! I'm so thrilled you enjoyed it :)

[@braddy808]

Benjamin, You are great! My mother tongues are Russian and Ukrainian, and I have an opportunity to freely read it in Russian even though it is not easy at all for a novel of that level. Through the characters' interactions and inner struggles, Dostoevsky explores timeless questions about the nature of God, the meaning of life, and the complexities of human relationships, and the writer does it particularly through the Russian-mindset polarizing prism. The novel ultimately suggests that true happiness and redemption can only be found through love, forgiveness, and a deep understanding of one's own limitations and weaknesses. I love the way you guide the reader through the novel's "mapping" of the "Russian soul". ☺💪

[@MariaMartinez-cb4mt]

Very interesting. Thank you very much for your lecture. I am certainly going to read this. I am going to look for the book now.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, Maria :) I'd love to know what you make of the work! Happy reading :)

[@ronnietopper4915]

Well, as if I needed another reason or rather an inspiration to read this book at this time in my life. So thank you very much, Mr McEvoy for a brilliant video. It's just that I wish I could take notes or marginalia while reading. I started doing this but it's interfering with my reading and then I'm upset because there was this quote that I wanted to remember and now I don't know where to find it.... Anyway, your passion is too irresistible. Your videos and podcast is very much appriciated.

[@petekrumb4936]

Perfect timing. Literally just started reading this for the first time ever

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Amazing!! I'd love to hear what you make of it, Pete :)

[@macanbhaird1966]

Could not put it better. "It is staggering." Took me a while to get over this book and read a "normal" novel again. I did not know the impression it made on Freud and the others. Many thanks for this!

[@vrraeel]

Thank you for juxtaposing War and Peace with Brothers Karamazov. Such a rich,turbulent time in Russian history. Brothers Karamazov has been a hard read for me. Its like reliving my 20's when i still embraced dualism. Tension,conflict,nonstop action. Truly "a great din". Yes, i can identify with all the major characters. Not particularly comforting. Learning to love myself because of or inspite of these flaws. I believe i can only love others as i love myself. We are one. It is easy to love as an ideal. Nothing is ideal. All this while the Murdaugh trial was going on. P&V is probably the best way to go for both books.

[@janmariolle]

I can’t wait to read this with the group!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I can’t wait to hear what you make of it, Jan! :)

[@vdg5346]

This is the best book review I have ever come across in my entire life.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, my friend. I really appreciate that :)

[@eranzelixon123]

Thank you! I have been reading Moby Dick for the last seven months on your recommendation, and it is now my favorite novel. Your suggestions allowed me to start reading it as a metaphor for my own life's journey, and it has been a valuable companion. Your content is always inspiring.

[@loukiadams5340]

@@Yesica1993 Don't give up on Moby Dick. I savoured that book! I read it, relished every flavour of it. So I intended to read it ever so slowly, cleared my mind of other books, and read it like it's the only book in the world. To my surprise, I finished the book in less than two weeks (in between work and sleep, all I wanted to do is pick up the book). I was so in love with that book! It holds a special place in my heart. It blew my mind. It is so beautifully written.

[@edycrowley2878]

This will be my next big read! Thank you. I've had it on my mental list for years...

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so happy to hear that, Edy! I think you'll find it a powerful reading experience :) I'd love to know what you make of it!

[@NeonRadarMusic]

This is my favourite book of all time. As a relatively young 31 year old musician and songwriter, it humbled me greatly. It taught me that you CAN'T make a true masterpiece until you've truly lived and it forced me to stop being so hard on myself regarding my own writing. It made me realize how much longer i have to go (and experience) and I got to writing the next day with a lot less judgment. Works of art this incredible can only come from a very deep and seasoned understanding of life. And the only way to get that is to, well, live and keep practicing your craft.

[@olgaotherstories8355]

Same here. I’m a writer and I think I have to give myself a break in a sense of trying to be smth I simply cannot be because it’s not the time yet…

[@bhavya_612]

which translation should i read

[@deveshverma1731]

What a delightful explication of this great work. Thank you, Mr. McEvoy. I tip my hat to your literary knowledge and your passion for books.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Devesh! That is so incredibly kind of you :)

[@harrymacdonald2672]

Funny how this came out the same day I was considering picking it up. Great video, mate. You've convinced me.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, Harry! It’s great when serendipity strikes :) I’d love to hear what you make of this masterpiece!

[@harrymacdonald2672]

​@@BenjaminMcEvoyI requested it for the school library. It arrived (I'm known to the librarian) and should be catalogued soon. With half term coming up I think I'll make a start and I should be done fast enough that my friend can check it out for over summer.

[@TheWhitehiker]

Great analysis and also wonderful imagery. Thanks much.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, my friend :)

[@henrikibsen6258]

Read it last Christmas for the second time. Just incredible. For some reason I already feel compelled to go back again.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so with you there. The Brothers Karamazov is definitely one of the most rereadable works of literature of all time!

[@TheCompleteGuitarist]

Thank you for sharing that. I have read a fair amount of Russian literature, Turgenev, Lermontov, Gogol, Chekov, Bulgakov, Zamyatin, can't recall any others other than The Idiot by Dostoevsky last year. Lex Fridman turned me onto the idea of reading The Brothers Karamazov and it is on my list, however, I am kind of hard up, live in a country where I cannot buy a copy locally, Uruguay and will have to wait until I can afford to buy a copy online, maybe sometime throughout this. Nonetheless, it will happen. I was really interested to hear you talk about the importance of the Bible. Being English, growing up in the late 60s, 70s and 80s I was subject to the relgious practice and education of state school and read a lot of the bible as a member of various relgious organizations, but it is a book that I am getting in touch with again. I'm currently reading The Rainbow by DH Lawrence and it is steeped in biblical language and references that really giveaway how important christianity was culturally and how empty life must be becoming for Europe now that it is losing that aspect of culture. I subscribed, look forward to listening to more videos and checking out the podcast sometime. Great channel.

[@frankandstern8803]

Most Grateful, Professor. Thank You.

[@mikheilnokarishvili1012]

You're such a talented and open-minded, keep going,I would like to discuss Bulgakov's Master and Margarita.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Mikheil! I love Bulgakov's Master and Margarita. Masterpiece :) We'll definitely have to do a discussion on that in the near future!

[@richardfox2865]

This is superb. The idea about identifying with the characters is so true.... Keep going, Dude.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you, Richard!! :)

[@mitch2413]

My favourite book of all time, just perfect.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Such a great book to have as one’s favourite! Masterpiece :)

[@pdcasablanca]

Hello Ben! I'm a fairly new subscriber, and I absolutely adore your channel! After I had finished my master's degree in sociology, I somehow fell really deep into the rabbit hole of reading classic literature (never read much prior to that). I usually read approximately 7-9 books at once, but I have trimmed it down recently, since I'm now reading some heavy bricks like Proust, Cervantes and Joyce's Ulysses (with a little help from Hastings' guidebook). Other than that, I'm constantly reading Nietzsche, Shakespeare, and I'm also trying to get into some poetry through Harold Bloom's "The best Poems of the English Language". I also have a question: are you planning to do a video on any work of Nietzsche, in the near future? Cheers from Sweden.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Hello Jonas! Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words, my friend. I really appreciate you being here! You’re reading some absolutely tremendous writers right there 👌Superb choices! And how fantastic to hear you’re enjoying Bloom, Shakespeare, and Nietzsche. I’m actually planning a podcast on Thus Spoke Zarathustra at the moment, which should be out quite soon! Happy reading over in Sweden! I’ve always wanted to visit :) 🇸🇪