The Gambler

5W Dostoevsky 1949

Notes

The Gambler by Fyodor Dostoevsky, first published in 1867, is a novella that delves into themes of addiction, love, and human weakness. The story is narrated by Alexei Ivanovich, a young tutor working for a Russian family living in a fictional German resort town. He becomes entangled in the lives of his employer, General Zagoriy, and his unrequited love for Polina, the General’s stepdaughter.

Alexei develops a destructive obsession with gambling, which mirrors the chaotic relationships and financial ruin surrounding him. The novel explores the psychological grip of gambling addiction and its effects on personal integrity and relationships. Written in a short time to fulfill Dostoevsky’s own financial obligations, The Gambler reflects the author’s intimate understanding of addiction and human frailty, drawn from his personal struggles.

Description

Red cloth cover, gold lettering on front and spine, black label, original dustcover