Fyodor Dostoevsky was a Russian novelist, short-story writer, essayist, and journalist, regarded as one of the greatest literary figures in world literature. Born in Moscow in 1821, Dostoevsky was the second of seven children. His early life was marked by tragedy and hardship, including the death of his mother when he was 15 and his fathers's death when he was 18. Despite these challenges, Dostoevsky pursued an education in engineering before dedicating himself to literature. His first novel, "Poor Folk," gained him immediate critical success. Dostoevsky’s life was a tumultuous blend of professional success and personal strife. He experienced severe financial difficulties, a traumatic four-year exile in Siberia following his arrest for anti-government activities, and a lifelong battle with epilepsy. His works are deeply influenced by his experiences, exploring themes of human suffering, morality, and redemption. Dostoevsky’s later works, such as "Crime and Punishment," "The Idiot," and "The Brothers Karamazov," cemented his legacy as a master of psychological realism and existential thought. He died in 1881, leaving behind a profound literary legacy that continues to be celebrated worldwide.
