The Brothers Karamazov

by Fyodor Dostoevsky

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The Brothers Karamazov Questions and Answers

What happened between Lise and Ivan?

"If there is not immortality, then everything is permitted." How can you explain that in reference to "The Brothers Karamazov"?

How is the theme of children portrayed in the Brothers of Karamazov?

To what extent is Alyosha the hero of the novel? Dosteovsky debated about this point in a note at the beginning of the novel.

How do you think the theme of collective responsibility of guilt is really conveyed and preached in the novel?

In The Brothers Karamazov, how does the theme of the “Grand Inquisitor” story resonate still today (i.e., current events and pop culture)?    

Regarding Father Zossimas' reference to the book of Job, what is the point of Job confessing that his sons may "have sinned in their feasting?"

In The Brothers Karamazov, how is change manifested in Lise eating the pineapple compote while watching the crucified child slowly die?

What reasons does The Grand Inquisitor offer about changing the teachings of Jesus?

From the reading of The Brothers Karamazov, please give me an idea of how to respond to Dostoevsky's question: "If you could assure that your torture of one little child would result in human happiness and peace and contentment for everyone else in the world for all time (that’s what destiny means after all), would you agree to do it?"

Dostoyevsky as Existentialist? Should Dostoyevsky be considered an existentialist writer? Does The Brother's Karamazov, in particular, qualify him as existentialist? I've seen this connection made before, but I think there is room for debate...

Explain how the Grand Inquisitor represents the almost unlimited power of the Roman Catholic Church at that time, and try to cite some historical examples of the church's far-reaching powers.