Restoring the Inner Heart: The Nous in Dostoevsky's Ridiculous Man

Explore the depths of Dostoevsky's spiritual vision. This literary study examines the concept of Nous in Dostoevsky's "The Dream of a Ridiculous Man," tracing its development from Greek philosophers to Christian fathers. Discover how Dostoevsky's Orthodox Christian understanding of the Nous shapes his characters and guides readers toward a truer vision of humanity.

By comparing the "Ridiculous Man" to similar characters in Dostoevsky's works, Restoring the Inner Heart reveals the profound spiritual themes underpinning his literary genius. This insightful analysis is perfect for scholars, theologians, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Dostoevsky's enduring legacy.

Mary Naumenko has been involved in parish ministry for thirty-five years together with her husband who is a priest of the Russian Orthodox Church. She is the translator of two books of spiritual counsel from Russian into English: Letters to Spiritual Children (Nikodemos Orthodox Publication Society) and Striving Toward God: Spiritual Advice for Daily Living (Holy Trinity Publications) as well as the author of five books in the Lives of Saints for Young People series published by Holy Trinity Monastery. She earned an M.A. in Humanities through The Great Books Honors College at Faulkner University (Montgomery, Alabama). Her Master’s thesis on the patristic concept of the nous in the writings of Dostoevsky provided the initial impetus for this book.