METAPHYSICS OF LONELINESS IN DOSTOEVSKY’S VIEW OF LIFE: ESSENCE AND ISSUES POSED

Abstract

Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky (1821-1881), a paramount figure in 19th-century Russian intellectualism, profoundly explored the human condition, emphasizing themes of solitude, freedom, and existential angst. His literary oeuvre, focusing on the intricate tapestry of human emotions and thoughts, navigates the complex journey of self-discovery and the quest for identity within the societal margins. Dostoevsky’s philosophical discourse on loneliness, intertwined with a quest for freedom from a religiously rooted volition, presents a nuanced analysis of Russian character and the prospect of spiritual redemption. This article highlights the dichotomy in Dostoevsky’s portrayal of human existence: the oscillation between despair and the pursuit of self-expression in a world fraught with uncertainty. His insights into the human psyche have profoundly influenced existential philosophy, marking a significant contribution to 20th-century existentialist thought. Dostoevsky’s narratives, rich in empathy and introspection, advocate for resilience in the face of existential despair, promoting a vision of liberation and genuine freedom. Dostoevsky’s legacy, as acknowledged by thinkers like Berdyaev, extends his influence beyond literary circles into the realms of existential and anthropological philosophy, championing the individual's capacity for self-transformation and the imperative of living a purposeful life. His characters, emblematic of the broader human struggle, navigate their destinies against the backdrop of a Russia in flux, reflecting Dostoevsky’s profound engagement with the socio-political currents of his time and his anticipation of a new chapter in Russian and human history.