THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD AND THE GAMBLER: Wordsworth Classics (Translation) (Short Stories) by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

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The House of the Dead & The Gambler by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a compelling addition to the Literary Fiction category. This collection brings together two of Dostoevsky’s significant works, offering readers a profound exploration of the human condition, as only Dostoevsky can provide.

In The House of the Dead, Dostoevsky draws from his own harrowing experiences in a Siberian penal colony, delivering a stark and graphic portrayal of life in a Russian labor camp. The narrative vividly depicts the suffering, squalor, and degradation of the convicts, as well as their moments of brief solace. Through the stories of these prisoners, readers experience the relentless isolation, the terror, and the brief moments of hope that punctuate the harsh reality of life in the camp. Dostoevsky’s masterful writing offers a unique insight into the lives of men forced to endure unimaginable cruelty and hardship.

The Gambler transports readers to a spa town dominated by its casino and the international clientele it attracts. The story follows Alexey Ivanovitch, a young tutor entangled in the lives of his wealthy employers. Set against the backdrop of gambling and desperation, Alexey observes and participates in the chaos surrounding the general’s household. As the plot unfolds, with everyone anticipating the death of Granny—a rich, elderly relative—Dostoevsky weaves a tale of greed, obsession, and the unexpected twists of fate.

Translated by Constance Garnett and featuring an introduction by A. D. P. Briggs, this edition of The House of the Dead & The Gambler is an essential read for those who appreciate Literary Fiction and the timeless works of Fyodor Dostoevsky.