The Brothers Karamazov · Chapter
I: The Engagement explained
Alyosha visits Lise and they discuss his brothers, his faith, and his bond with the dying Elder Zossima.
What happens
Alyosha visits Lise and they discuss his brothers, his faith, and his bond with the dying Elder Zossima. Lise declares they will be together always, and Alyosha kisses her. Madame Hohlakov intercepts him, distressed by their engagement and by Katerina Ivanovna's deteriorating health. Alyosha recounts his encounter with Captain Snegiryov, explaining why he did not give him the money and why it may be for the best.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Self-Sacrifice
Alyosha and Lise pledge to be together always, while Alyosha's care for Snegiryov reflects selfless concern for another's dignity.
Innocence and Corruption
Alyosha's pure intentions contrast with the pride and shame that corrupt Snegiryov's acceptance of help.
Faith and Doubt
Alyosha confesses he may not believe in God, revealing his inner turmoil despite his role as a novice.
Characters to notice
- Alyosha Karamazov
Confides in Lise about his brothers, his doubts about God, and his devotion to Elder Zossima; recounts his visit to Captain Snegiryov.
- Lise Hohlakov
Expresses her love for Alyosha, declares they will be together always, and listens intently to his story about Snegiryov.
- Madame Hohlakov
Intercepts Alyosha, distressed by the engagement and Katerina Ivanovna's condition; urges him to cheer Lise.
- Katerina Ivanovna
Lies delirious and in a fever after her hysterics; Herzenstube has been sent for.
- Captain Snegiryov
Subject of Alyosha's story; trampled on the money offered to him, driven by shame and pride.
- Father Zossima
Mentioned as the dying elder to whom Alyosha is bound; his teachings inform Alyosha's reflections.
Key passages
“My brothers are destroying themselves, my father, too. And they are destroying others with them. It's 'the primitive force of the Karamazovs,' as Father Païssy said the other day, a crude, unbridled, earthly force.”
Alyosha laments that his brothers and father are self-destructively driven by a raw, uncontrollable Karamazov passion.
Alyosha reflects on the destructive nature of his family.
“And perhaps I don't even believe in God.”
Alyosha admits to Lise that he might lack faith.
A moment of profound doubt from the novice monk.
“I made one blunder, but that, even that, is all for the best.”
Alyosha believes his mistake in offering extra money to Snegiryov may ultimately lead to a better outcome.
Alyosha explains the paradoxical benefit of Snegiryov's rejection of the money.