What should I read first in order to better appreciate The Brothers Karamazov?
I'm finally giving this beast a go, starting on December 1st. My goal will be to have it completed by the end of 2008. So I have two months to prepare in the meantime. Aside from the Bible (any specific books/chapters?) what should I read in order to prep myself for a thorough understanding of what is apparently, Dostoevksy's greatest novel? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
My introduction to Dostoevsky was in 1958 ....
when I saw the Richard Brooks film of The Brothers Karamazov with Yul Brynner, Richard Basehart, William Shatner as Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha. Lee J. Cobb as the drunken, lecherous Fyodor Karamazov and the senuous Maria Shell in the role Marilyn Monroe wanted, Grushenka. I don't believe the movie has ever been put on dvd, but it is sometimes available on VHS.
Since then, I have read nearly all of Dostoevsky and have most of his works in finely bound and illustrated editions.
In spite of all the pedagogical allusions to metaphors, symbolism, and other arcane references, the fact is the book is just a good damn story! If you see the movie first, you will realize this and be able to read the book just as a great story, not some literary fiasco which is difficult to read, and in which there must be some hidden meaning. Remember, professors want to take the joy out of reading, and make each of us search for hidden meanings; then, the book becomes a chore rather than an enjoyment.