Michael Katz

The Dostoevsky: Brothers Karamazov class offers an in-depth exploration of one of the most profound and complex works in Russian literature. This course invites students to immerse themselves in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s final novel, The Brothers Karamazov, and to engage critically with its themes of faith, free will, morality, and the nature of good and evil. Taught by an instructor deeply versed in Dostoevsky’s philosophical and literary contributions, the class is structured around close readings of the text, thoughtful discussions, and an analysis of its historical and cultural context. The novel’s intricate narrative and multifaceted characters provide ample opportunities to examine the psychological and spiritual dilemmas central to the human experience. Students are encouraged to reflect on the philosophical questions the novel raises, particularly concerning existentialism, suffering, and the search for meaning. One of the strengths of this class is its ability to engage students with the broader philosophical and religious ideas that Dostoevsky wrestled with, including his reflections on Christianity, nihilism, and human nature. The class examines the different character arcs of the Karamazov brothers—each representing distinct philosophical and moral viewpoints—and discusses how these perspectives reflect the tumultuous intellectual climate of 19th-century Russia. The course also provides a forum for passionate debates, with students engaging in lively discussions about the ethical questions posed by Dostoevsky’s characters. The instructor does an excellent job of facilitating these discussions, encouraging students to articulate their interpretations and critically engage with one another’s ideas.

The Dostoevsky: Brothers Karamazov class offers an in-depth exploration of one of the most profound and complex works in Russian literature. This course invites students to immerse themselves in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s final novel, The Brothers Karamazov, and to engage critically with its themes of faith, free will, morality, and the nat …Read more

This class was an amazing experience, and The Brothers Karamazov is truly the best book I’ve ever read (Thus far). The professor is an incredible guide—his deep understanding of the novel, combined with his ability to make complex ideas accessible, made every discussion engaging and thought-provoking. He brought out the novel’s depth to help us appreciate Dostoevsky’s brilliance on a whole new level. I liked the movie we watched too. Reading The Brothers Karamazov with his guidance made a challenging book rewarding and exciting. It's a very rich book, with many sections about faith, free will, morality, and human nature. If you want this book to consume your life for a month, J term is the best time to do it. Snowy Vermont even starts to feel like Russia.

This class was an amazing experience, and The Brothers Karamazov is truly the best book I’ve ever read (Thus far). The professor is an incredible guide—his deep understanding of the novel, combined with his ability to make complex ideas accessible, made every discussion engaging and thought-provoking. He brought out the novel’s depth …Read more

Reading one of the best English translations of The Brothers of Karamazov published by Professor Katz himself was an invaluable and fulfilling way to spend my first J-term at Middlebury. Class discussions and thoughtful lectures made me contemplate contemporary moral and religious ideas that have influenced my development as college student.