2A. Myshkin

[John]

2A. I originally wrote this question as a comparison of the interaction between Myshkin and Rogozin with the Grand Inquisitor story, but that was based on a series of questions I found and before reading the book. I've decided to replace this question with four sub-questions. If you would prefer to answer the original question - feel free to do so.

2A. Assess the character of Prince Lev Nikolaevich Myshkin.

[John]

Myshkin is Dostoevsky's idea of the person who is as good as possible. A Christ-like figure, he always sees the good in others, understands and excuses their weaknesses, even when it harms himself and is self-giving in really extraordinary ways.

Of course, in a cynical world caught up with acquisition and status, Myshkin is understood as an idiot. Indeed people form this opinion of him immediately upon meeting, without his saying a word. His very face is open not closed, guarded, protected from the assaults of those around him. I think D is conveying the idea that Myshkin is transparent and open, so much so that those in Russian society that see him mistake his openness with vacantness.

I wished at times that I knew Myshkin. Indeed it seems he needs friends to protect him from the world, which really does want to crucify him.

[Kristel]

Prince Myshkin is a open, kindhearted and a good person who is often viewed as a simpleton by worldly characters. They assume he lacks intelligence often calling him an idiot to his face. I agree that in literary motif, this would be a Christ like figure.

I think this accurately reflects how worldly people view Christians, often.

[John]

Kristel wrote: "Prince Myshkin is a open, kindhearted and a good person who is often viewed as a simpleton by worldly characters. They assume he lacks intelligence often calling him an idiot to his face. I agree t..."

Scriptural even: "God has chosen the foolish things of this world to confound the wise." 1 Corintians 1:27.

[[deleted user]]

Agree with both of you above and would add that he is not actually an idiot he is highly perceptive of what is going on with the people around him.

[Tracy]

I agree with all of the above.

[Pip]

He was depicted as a Christ-like figure in a world that was not particularly Christian despite going through the motions. He saw the good in everyone, but he lacked awareness of how his bumbling social intercourse affected other people.