As I delved into this little book, I realized I don't know much about Russian history or culture. Peter Leithart wrote this book in a dialogue style, which helped to make it a good read. Very interesting.
I had never heard of Dostoevsky before reading this book. He was a giant in the reformation of political Russia. He lived in the 1800's and his life was full of adventure, trial and death. After writing a book to typify the political situation of Russia, he was arrested and found himself in front of a firing squad. While third in line to face death, a decision was made to send the prisoners to exile in Siberia instead. During his stay, the New Testament was allowed to be read. This was his very breath and life during these years. Unfortunately, he suffered from epilepsy, but also was involved in extramarital affairs. This disappointed me as a reader.
Fyodor Dostoevsky has been hailed as having a deep Christian Faith, but I am not sure how deep those roots went. The many references to Christ in the book had to do with the state of Russia as a whole. In this read, Dostoevsky never talks about his personal relationship to Christ and what Christ's work on the cross did for him.
I learned many things reading this, but would have loved to read more about his faith, and less about his works.
As part of the Booksneeze blogging network, I received a complementary copy of this book.
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