The civil servant Ivan Matveich and his wife Yelena Ivanovna are spectators of an exhibition – in a shopping arcade – of a crocodile owned by a German, when Ivan is suddenly swallowed alive by the animal. Unsuccessful in his attempts to be freed from his prison, due to the German's concern for his crocodile and excessive desire for compensation, the civil servant gradually comes to appreciate his new environment, while his wife begins to enjoy her new-found freedom. Inspired by Gogol's surreal tales, Dostoevsky's hilarious story has been interpreted by some as a vitriolic piece of social criticism and a veiled attack on the revolutionary philosopher Nikolai Chernyshevsky.
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821–1881) was a Russian novelist and philosopher known for his psychological depth and existential themes. His most notable works include "Crime and Punishment," "The Brothers Karamazov," and "Notes from Underground." Dostoevsky's writing style is characterized by its intense exploration of human nature, moral dilemmas, and the complexities of the human psyche. His works have had a profound impact on literature, inspiring generations of writers with their profound insights into the human condition. "Crime and Punishment" is widely regarded as his most famous work, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of evil. Dostoevsky's contributions to literature have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest novelists in history.
Other related
The Crocodile and Other Stories (riverrun Editions)
Dostoevsky's finest short stories in the timeless translations of Constance Garnett
