Subject
Nihilism -- Fiction Books
Best books
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
The possessed : $b or, The devils
"The Possessed: or, The Devils" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel first published in 1871–72. A fictional Russian town descends into chaos as conspirators attempt revolution, led by the cunning Pyotr Verkhovensky. Dominating the story is the mysterious aristocrat Nikolai Stavrogin, who exerts extraordinary influence over nearly everyone around him. This political satire and psychological drama explores the catastrophic consequences of nihilism taking hold in 1860s Russia, where destructive ideas possess individuals and threaten to consume an entire society.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Sämtliche Werke 5-6 : $b Die Dämonen
"Sämtliche Werke 5-6: Die Dämonen" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores the themes of nihilism, morality, and societal upheaval in Russia, with a focus on various characters navigating the complex and tumultuous landscape of revolutionary ideas. The primary character introduced, Stepan Trophimowitsch Werchowenski, plays a significant role in the novel as he represents the struggles of intellectuals amid societal change. The opening of the novel presents a detailed introduction to Stepan Trophimowitsch, a somewhat eccentric figure obsessed with the idea of being a victim of fate and circumstance. The narrative reveals his past, including his tenure as a university lecturer and his varied literary ambitions. The text highlights his interactions with other characters and his longing for significance in a rapidly changing world, showcasing not only his personal struggles but also the broader existential dilemmas faced by society. The tone sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Dostoyevsky's critical examination of nihilism and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.
William Le Queux
A Secret Service: Being Strange Tales of a Nihilist
"A Secret Service: Being Strange Tales of a Nihilist" by William Le Queux is a historical fiction novel likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative introduces readers to Anton Prèhznev, a Jewish exile who becomes embroiled in the tumultuous world of Nihilism amid the oppression of the Russian autocracy. Through his eyes, the book explores themes of political exile, rebellion, and the human cost of autocratic rule. The opening of the book sets a dramatic tone by presenting Anton's reflections on his tragic backstory, marked by the oppressive regime represented by the Tzar. It recounts the painful events that led him to become a member of the Nihilist party, detailing the arrest of his father, the illness and subsequent death of his mother, and the struggles of his sister Mascha. As Anton vows revenge against the tyrannical forces that wreaked havoc on his family, the narrative profoundly delves into the upbringing and hardships faced by those challenging the oppressive societal structures in Russia. This opening portion establishes a gripping foundation that promises a blend of personal and collective struggles amidst radical political movements.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Les possédés
"Les possédés" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel first published in 1871–72. A fictional Russian town descends into chaos when master conspirator Pyotr Verkhovensky orchestrates an attempted revolution. At the story's center is the mysterious aristocrat Nikolai Stavrogin, who exerts an extraordinary influence over nearly everyone around him. This political satire and psychological drama explores how destructive ideologies can possess individuals and communities, tracing the dangerous consequences of the nihilistic ideas spreading through 1860s Russia.
Ross Beeckman
Princess Zara
"Princess Zara" by Ross Beeckman is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The book introduces readers to Princess Zara de Echeveria, a young woman of noble birth who is distinguished not only by her beauty and grace but also by her involvement in the tumultuous world of revolutionary politics. The story unfolds as she navigates the intricacies of her privileged life alongside her commitment to the nihilist cause, setting the stage for a dramatic exploration of love, loyalty, and rebellion. At the start of the novel, Princess Zara arrives in New York City, accompanied by a lavish retinue and an air of mystery that captivates onlookers. After settling into her luxurious hotel suite, she receives an urgent visitor, Alexis Saberevski, an expatriate with ties to the Russian Czar. Their conversation reveals a complicated dynamic, touching on Zara's clandestine connections with the nihilist movement back home, as well as her struggles with the consequences of her commitments. This opening sets a tone of intrigue and tension, hinting at Zara's internal conflicts and the dangerous political landscape she inhabits, promising a gripping tale of a woman torn between her noble heritage and revolutionary ideals.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Riivaajat 2/3
"Riivaajat 2/3" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel first published in 1871–72. A fictional Russian town descends into chaos as political conspirator Pyotr Verkhovensky orchestrates an attempted revolution. The enigmatic aristocrat Nikolai Stavrogin dominates the story, wielding mysterious influence over nearly everyone around him. This social and political satire explores the catastrophic consequences of nihilism spreading through 1860s Russia, as destructive ideas possess individuals and communities, threatening to tear apart the social fabric.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Riivaajat 1/3
"Riivaajat 1/3" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel published in 1871–72. A fictional Russian town spirals into chaos as conspirator Pyotr Verkhovensky orchestrates an attempted revolution. At the story's center stands the enigmatic aristocrat Nikolai Stavrogin, whose mysterious influence captivates nearly everyone around him. This political satire and psychological drama explores the catastrophic consequences of nihilism spreading through 1860s Russia, showing how dangerous ideas can possess individuals and destroy communities. The novel examines how idealistic intellectuals unwittingly become accomplices to destructive forces.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Riivaajat 3/3
"Riivaajat 3/3" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel written in the late 19th century. This intricate work continues the exploration of social, psychological, and political themes that permeate Dostoyevsky's oeuvre, particularly focusing on the moral dilemmas faced by individuals and the chaotic interplay of societal forces. Central to this narrative is the character of Julija Mihailovna, as her plans for a grand celebration unfold amidst underlying tensions and potential scandal. At the start of the novel, the scene is set for a significant festive event organized by Julija Mihailovna, despite an atmosphere charged with ambiguity and cynicism among the attendees. The narrative intricately weaves through the expectations of the guests, the chaos of their interactions, and the tension building around Julija, whose lack of awareness of the brewing discontent underscores the disconnect between her ambitions and the underlying social reality. As the celebration begins, various societal types are drawn to the occasion, leading to a palpable sense of anticipation, yet also foreshadowing impending disruption marked by humorous exchanges and critical commentary on the behaviors exhibited by the attendees.
S. Stepniak
En Nihilist
"En Nihilist" by S. Stepniak is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the experiences of Russian émigrés, particularly focusing on the characters Helene and Andrey, as they navigate the complex world of revolutionary thought and loyalty to their homeland. The opening of the novel introduces Helene, who is eagerly awaiting a letter containing news from Russia, which she intends to share with her friend Andrey. We learn about the setting in a small pub in Geneva, where Russian exiles congregate, as well as the tension and excitement surrounding the political situation back home. Andrey's character is revealed to be serious and contemplative, while Helene's quick wit and concern for her friends set the stage for the unfolding drama concerning their associates involved in underground revolutionary activities. Through their exchange, the narrative hints at larger themes of friendship, loyalty, and the perilous nature of political dissent in Czarist Russia.
Recently surfaced classics