Laceration in The Brothers Karamazov Nathan Grow

In his essay, "The Brothers Karamazov: Idea and Technique" Edward Wasiolek examines two aspects of Dostoevsky's work. He begins with an exposition of the scene in Elder Zosima's cell and Ivan's internal struggles with religion, and then follows this with a detailed look at the relationship between Dmitri and Katerina. Both of these sections have much to say about the novel as a whole, especially when viewed together. However, before a discussion of their combined significance can begin, each one of these parts of the essay must be understood by itself.

Wasiolek begins his essay by acclaiming Dostoevsky's introduction to The Brothers Karamazov. The preliminary scene in Zosima's cell is essential because it sets the stage for the entire novel, and it raises questions that will be addressed throughout. The conflicts of "child against father; humility against hate; monastery against the world; expiation against threat" (Wasiolek, 813) are all introduced. In addition to this, the reader is made aware of Ivan's questions with regard to religion. Wasiolek emphasizes the importance of the doubts that Ivan has because, in his own words, "The external drama is Ivan's internal...