Who (and What) Is the Grand Inquisitor?
"I want to be there when everyone suddenly finds out what it was all for." - Ivan Fyodorovich Karamazov
The Grand Inquisitor Is Two Things:
First, a chapter, and a story within a story, in Dostoevsky’s legendary novel The Brothers Karamazov. Second, and just as importantly, the Grand Inquisitor is a figure in that story. Both have enormous implications for Christians. The story is also a rich and incisive critique of Catholicism, albeit one I rejected when I converted to the faith as an adult.
1. Why Write About the Grand Inquisitor?
Two reasons - Dostoevsky is my favorite writer, and in many respects his critique of Catholicism is more relevant today than ever. I believe a careful study of Dostoevsky’s work illuminates the current crisis of division in the Catholic Church and may even provide some mechanisms for resolving it. What’s more, I hope to counter some of Dostoevsky’s points about Catholicism without dismissing his insightful writing.
2. What Should I Expect from this Newsletter?
I plan to publish bi-weekly newsletters focusing on literature from a Catholic perspective, starting with the Brothers Karamazov and proceeding to other works from there. I do not plan to introduce paid subscriptions.
3. Should I Actually Read the Brothers Karamazov?
Many people are skeptical that investing in such a lengthy book is worthwhile. I believe so, in this case. But just reading the chapter itself is beneficial.