Eastern Philosophy in Dostoevsky's Novels: Cross-Cultural Transmission and Literary Analysis

Abstract

This study explores the influence of Eastern philosophical ideas on Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novels, focusing on the mechanisms of cross-cultural transmission and the effects of this synthesis on the thematic content and structural coherence of his works. By employing various literary criticism theories, including formalism, psychoanalysis, Marxism, and postcolonialism, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between Eastern philosophy and Dostoevsky’s literary artistry. The study begins with an overview of Dostoevsky’s life and literary career, highlighting the key events and influences that shaped his worldview. It then delves into the main schools of Eastern philosophy, including Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, and their core ideas. The third section analyzes the presence of Eastern philosophical elements in Dostoevsky’s novels, focusing on the characters and themes that reflect these influences. The fourth section examines the mechanisms of cross-cultural transmission, including translation and cultural fusion, and their impact on the accessibility and interpretive depth of his works. The fifth section employs various literary criticism theories to analyze the integration of Eastern philosophy in Dostoevsky’s novels, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each approach. The final section concludes the study, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Eastern philosophy in Dostoevsky’s works and its contribution to the understanding of the universal human condition.