Discover books similar to "Poor Folk"
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Poor Folk
3.76
"Poor Folk" is a epistolary novel written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky, first published in 1846. The novel is a powerful exploration of poverty, love, and social class in 19th century Russia, told through the correspondence between its two main characters, Makar Devushkin and Varvara Dobroselova. Devushkin, a low-level civil servant, and Dobroselova, the orphaned daughter of a deacon, are both impoverished and struggling to make ends meet in St. Petersburg. Despite their financial struggles, the two form a deep and intimate connection through their letters, sharing their hopes, fears, and dreams with one another. Dostoyevsky's portrayal of poverty in "Poor Folk" is unflinching and unromanticized. He exposes the harsh realities of living in poverty, from the constant worry about where the next meal is coming from, to the dehumanizing effects of being treated as inferior because of one's financial status. Yet, despite the bleak setting, the novel is also imbued with a sense of hope and humanity. Devushkin and Dobroselova's relationship is a testament to the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity. "Poor Folk" is also a profound exploration of love and social class. Devushkin and Dobroselova's love for each other is threatened by the societal norms and expectations of their time, as well as their own financial limitations. Dostoyevsky uses their relationship to critique the rigid class structures of 19th century Russia and to question the value that society places on material wealth. Overall, "Poor Folk" is a powerful and moving novel that offers a unique and compelling perspective on poverty, love, and social class in 19th century Russia. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Dostoyevsky's work, or in the literature of this time period...
List of books similar to "Poor Folk":
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Notes From Underground
A predecessor to 'Poor Folk', 'Notes from Underground' is another intense psychological exploration by Dostoyevsky. The unnamed protagonist, often referred to as the Underground Man, is a former civil servant who rants about his own insignificance and the absurdity of life. This novel is a great choice for those who enjoyed 'Poor Folk' as it showcases Dostoyevsky's ability to delve into the depths of human consciousness.
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Fyodor Dostoyevsky
The Brothers Karamazov
Often considered Dostoyevsky's magnum opus, 'The Brothers Karamazov' is a complex and philosophical novel that explores morality, free will, and religion. The story revolves around three brothers and their father, whose relationships are marred by jealousy, betrayal, and murder. Fans of 'Poor Folk' will appreciate the intricate character development and thought-provoking themes present in this novel.
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Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Crime and Punishment
A powerful examination of guilt and redemption, 'Crime and Punishment' tells the story of Raskolnikov, an impoverished ex-student who murders a pawnbroker and grapples with his conscience. This novel is a must-read for fans of 'Poor Folk', as it further showcases Dostoyevsky's ability to delve into the darker aspects of human nature and the psychological impact of crime.
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Fyodor Dostoyevsky
The Idiot
In 'The Idiot', Dostoyevsky introduces readers to Prince Myshkin, a naive and compassionate man who becomes entangled in a love triangle with two women from different social classes. This novel is a good choice for those who enjoyed 'Poor Folk' due to its exploration of morality, love, and the human condition.
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J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye
A modern classic, 'The Catcher in the Rye' follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenager who grapples with the loss of innocence and the superficiality of society. This novel is a great choice for fans of 'Poor Folk' as it shares the themes of disillusionment, poverty, and the struggles of adolescence.
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Albert Camus
The Stranger
In 'The Stranger', Meursault, an emotionally detached man, is indifferent to the death of his mother and later shoots an Arab man on the beach. This novel is a good choice for those who enjoyed 'Poor Folk' due to its exploration of existentialism, alienation, and the human condition.
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Franz Kafka
The Metamorphosis
In 'The Metamorphosis', Gregor Samsa wakes up one day to find himself transformed into a giant insect. This novella is a great choice for fans of 'Poor Folk' as it shares the themes of alienation, the human condition, and the struggle to cope with unexpected circumstances.
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Sylvia Plath
The Bell Jar
In 'The Bell Jar', Esther Greenwood, a talented young woman, descends into mental illness and struggles to find meaning in her life. This novel is a good choice for fans of 'Poor Folk' due to its exploration of mental health, poverty, and the struggles of young adulthood.
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Ralph Ellison
Invisible Man
In 'Invisible Man', the unnamed protagonist, an African American man, grapples with his identity and the racism he faces in society. This novel is a great choice for fans of 'Poor Folk' as it shares the themes of alienation, identity, and the struggle to find one's place in the world.
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Gustave Flaubert
Madame Bovary
In 'Madame Bovary', Emma Bovary, a young woman, is disillusioned with her marriage and seeks excitement and passion in extramarital affairs. This novel is a good choice for fans of 'Poor Folk' due to its exploration of disillusionment, poverty, and the human condition.
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Franz Kafka
The Trial
In 'The Trial', Joseph K., a bank employee, is arrested and prosecuted by an unseen authority for an unknown crime. This novel is a great choice for fans of 'Poor Folk' as it shares the themes of alienation, identity, and the struggle to cope with unexpected circumstances.
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