Childhood as an ethical category in the works of F. M. Dostoevsky (Russia)

This dissertation presents a detailed analysis of childhood as an ethical category in Fyodor Dostoevsky's work and imagination. An ambivalent image of childhood, at times “angelic” and at other times “demonic”, presents a philosophical universe of its own within Dostoevsky's novels. The thesis links the personal experiences of the writer's own early years to his artistic vision where the theme of childhood becomes the main focal point for addressing the ethical motifs of innocence, suffering and redemption.; The development of this theme is traced from Dostoevsky's earliest novels, such as Poor Folk and Netochka Nezvanova, to the last one, The Brothers Karamazov. We also examine Dostoevsky's relationship with his father, Mikhail Andreevich Dostoevsky, presenting an impressive picture of his blind fear and financial dependency, which are hidden under the euphemistic discursive strategy of love and respect.; The similarities between molestation and murder are of the main concern and being analyzed through the characters of Svidrigailov, Raskolnikov, Stavrogin and others represent an entirely new approach to Dostoevsky studies. The dissertation strongly illuminates the religious subtexts of Dostoevsky's imagery, such as his belief that the preservation of childlike nature in adults signifies the highest level of spirituality. This belief is the keystone of Dostoevsky's work as it echoes Christian vision of children who will be the first to enter The Kingdom of Heaven. The thesis is not only build around Dostoevsky's deep belief that “through the children the soul heals”, but also pictures his tragic vision of childhood, as a target of the demonic temptations.; The dissertation combines aesthetic and ethical approaches to Dostoevsky's images of childhood. By combining aesthetic and ethical approaches as well as analyzing existing critical studies, this thesis seeks to explore the significance of the theme of childhood in Dostoevsky's oeuvre.