Translation of: Besy (alternately translated into English as "The Possessed, Demons, and Devils") and was originally published in 1872.

"First Modern library edition."

Third of Dostoyevsky's five major novels. It is a powerful political tract and a profound study of a theism, depicting disarray which follows the appearence of a band of modish radicals in a small provincial town. The novel is full of buffoonery and grotesque comedy.

Pyotr Verkhovensky and Nikolai Stavrogin are the leaders of a Russian revolutionary cell. Their aim is to overthrow the Tsar, destroy society and seize power for themselves. Together they train terrorists who are willing to go to any lengths to achieve their goals - even if the mission means suicide. But when it seems their motley group is about to be discovered, will their recruits be willing to kill one of their own circle in order to cover their tracks? As the ensuing investigation and trial reveal the true identity of the murderer, Dostoyevsky's and everyone's faith in humanity is tested. Partly based on the real-life case of a student murdered by his fellow revolutionaries, Dostoyevsky's sprawling novel is a powerful and prophetic, yet lively and often comic depiction of nineteenth-century Russia, and a savage indictment of the madness and nihilism of those who use violence to serve their beliefs.

Also issued online.

SACFinal081324