Crime and Punishment & Other Great Novels of Dostoevsky
by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Contents
The Idiot — Part I — Chapter XII
Overview
Myshkin seeks Nastasia Philipovna but is thwarted by the drunken General Ivolgin, who drags him to futile calls and a humiliating scene at Madame Terentieff’s. Colia rescues the errand, reveals Hippolyte’s condition and family dynamics, and proposes a shared future with Myshkin. They reach Nastasia’s residence, setting up the next encounter.
Summary
Colia brings Prince Myshkin to a tavern to meet General Ardalion Ivolgin, who, already drunk, accepts money and boasts while agreeing to help Myshkin reach Nastasia Philipovna. Instead, Ivolgin delays with drink and grandiose stories, then insists on visiting old acquaintances.
They attempt a call at a supposed friend’s flat but find the family away. Undeterred, Ivolgin redirects to Madame Terentieff’s, claiming solace there. Anticipating trouble, Colia warns his father has promised money he cannot pay.
At Madame Terentieff’s, Marfa Borisovna denounces Ivolgin for exploiting her and her children. Shamed, Ivolgin hands over twenty-five roubles—money sourced from Myshkin—and, claiming weakness, collapses on a sofa and falls asleep. Marfa seats Myshkin formally while her children watch in silence.
Seizing the moment, Myshkin asks Colia for Nastasia’s address. Colia corrects it to the Five Corners near Wladimir Street and leads Myshkin on foot. On the way, Colia explains Hippolyte’s illness, sensitivity, and harsh views, criticizes Petersburg’s moral decay and money-grubbing, and praises his mother Nina Alexandrovna and Varia for secretly aiding Hippolyte’s family, which Gania does not know.
Moved by Myshkin, Colia proposes they and Hippolyte rent a flat together, letting the general visit. They reach Nastasia’s building; encouraged by Colia, Myshkin prepares to enter, anticipating an unconventional reception.
Who Appears
- Prince Lev MyshkinDetermined to see Nastasia Philipovna; endures Ivolgin’s drunken diversions; secures Colia’s guidance to her correct address.
- General Ardalion Alexandrovitch IvolginDrunk, boastful, and unreliable; drags Myshkin to visits; berated by Madame Terentieff; gives 25 roubles and falls asleep.
- Colia (Nikolai Ivolgin)Guides Myshkin to Nastasia’s address; discusses Hippolyte and family charity; proposes a shared household with Myshkin.
- Marfa Borisovna TerentieffWidow who rebukes Ivolgin for debts and exploitation; accepts money while caring for her children.
- Hippolyte TerentieffIll, sensitive, and opinionated son; offstage presence influencing Colia’s plans and moral debates.
- LenotchkaMarfa Borisovna’s eldest child; fetches a cushion for the collapsing general.