The Brothers Karamazov · Chapter
Book VIII: Mitya explained
Dmitri Karamazov, in a frantic and desperate state, seeks money to run away with Grushenka.
What happens
Dmitri Karamazov, in a frantic and desperate state, seeks money to run away with Grushenka. He first approaches Samsonov, then Lyagavy, and later tries to borrow from Madame Hohlakov. His attempts fail, and he becomes increasingly agitated. The chapter culminates in his violent attack on his father and the theft of money, setting the stage for his eventual arrest.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it centers on Katerina Ivanovna’s hysterical, guilt-ridden declarati…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Suffering and Redemption
Dmitri's frantic quest for money and his violent actions reflect his inner turmoil and foreshadow his potential for redemption through suffering.
- Fathers and Sons
The conflict between Dmitri and Fyodor Pavlovitch intensifies, highlighting the destructive rivalry and lack of filial piety.
Characters to notice
- Dmitri Karamazov
Desperately seeking money to elope with Grushenka; becomes violent and steals from his father.
- Grushenka
The object of Dmitri's obsession; her potential departure drives his frantic actions.
- Fyodor Pavlovitch Karamazov
Dmitri's father and rival for Grushenka; attacked and robbed by Dmitri.
- Kuzma Samsonov
Dmitri seeks money from him but is refused.
- Madame Hohlakov
Dmitri attempts to borrow money from her but is turned down.
Key passages
“Mitya was in a frenzy. He had to have money, and he had to have it at once.”
Dmitri was desperate and needed money immediately.
Captures Dmitri's urgent and frantic state of mind.
“He rushed to his father's house, determined to get the money by any means.”
He went to his father's home, resolved to obtain the money no matter what.
Highlights the escalation of Dmitri's desperation into violent action.
