Open AccessA “Mathematical” Problem in Dostoevsky’s <i>The Raw Youth</i>
Author(s) -
Yuliya N. Sytina
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
problemy istoričeskoj poètiki
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2411-4642
pISSN - 1026-9479
DOI - 10.15393/j9.art.2020.7742
Subject(s) - mathematics , calculus (dental) , medicine , dentistry
Dostoevsky’s novel The Raw Youth repeatedly refers a reader to mathematics. This fact favors analysis and interpretations of the “mathematical” problem in the novel. Mathematics as an exact science is for Arkady Dolgoruky the main guarantor that his idea of becoming a “Rothschild” is achievable and true. This idea is based on “mathematics”, as it involves the calculation of income. “Mathematical validity” is authoritative for Kraft and other members of Dergachev’s circle,as well as Stebelkov, Lambert, Olya. The plot of the novel is based on “mathematical validity”. It is Katerina Nikolaevna’s fateful letter. The idiom “as simple as twice two makes four” appears six times in The Raw Youth . The debunking of this formula is a characteristic motif for Dostoevsky’s work. The motif of vulnerability of “mathematics” increases with the development of the plot. The Raw Youth’s “mathematical” idea collides with his feelings and impulsive actions. The “mathematical validity” turns out to be irrational. It basis is not logic, but conviction. The opposition to “mathematics” and rationality is “living life” in Dostoevsky’s work. It contributes to the rebirth of Arkady Dolgoruky. He evolves from Rothschild to Christ, from accumulation to self-sacrifice, from Law to Grace.