Essay Questions

How does the author bring out the issue of fanaticism in the novel Demons?

The author of this novel reflects on the wave of zealotry which flounced Russia in the 19th century. The character Peter is used to demonstrate the obliteration of the societal order. He is a young communalist radical character who together with his four colleagues are going against the social order. The intention of Peter and his friends thinks that they can use force to achieve their objectives regardless of the negative impact of their actions. On the other hand, Stepan is depicted as an idealistic man whose objective is to use liberal social means to bring change. However, as the novel progresses the reader realizes that the radicalized youth do not go far with their mission because they fail miserably.

What is the symbolic meaning of the characters Stepan and Peter?

Peter is the son of Stepan and they both represent generational change. Stepan represents the old generation and its liberal strategies to bring change while Peter represents the new generation that is using extremism and force to bring the anticipated change. Besides the political change, Stepan also represents the old romantic ways and the urge to read. Stepan is a liberal professor who is old-fashioned and idealistic. On the other hand, Peter is a young youth leader of the radical movement. The strategies used by both generations to tackle change are different.

What are the consequences of radicalism according to Dostoevsky?

Dostoevsky explains that radicals and extremists pay dearly for their actions. The primary objective of the extremists is to push for change using violent means such as destruction of property and human life. However, the novel illustrates that radicals are subject to the full force of the law in more often many are shot dead by the authorities or arrested and imprisoned for life. Therefore, the message the author puts across is that change can be attained in a more idealistic way rather than using violence which results in loss of property and human life.