Orthodox Book Discussion

Restoring the  Inner Heart: The Nous in Dostoevsky’s Ridiculous Man  By  Mary Naumenko

Excerpt: What is the nous? It is the God-given organ implanted deeply within (our heart) that is very receptive to the true reality of things. It is often referred to by the early Christian fathers as the “eye of the soul.”

From the Bookseller:

Written close to the end of the great writer’s life, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s short story The Dream of a Ridiculous Man tells of a transformation of the heart and a journey from despair to joy: a joy that can be known by all through the experience of God that transcends a simply rational discourse. The spiritual metamorphosis of the title character is examined in depth in light of the ancient concept of Nous as it developed from the Greek philosophers to the Christian fathers. By comparing the “Ridiculous Man” to similar characters in Dostoevsky’s writings (e.g., the Brothers Karamozov), the author shows how an Orthodox Christian understanding of the Nous underpins Dostoevsky’s writings in turn guides the reader toward a truer vision of humanity.

The book is available in the church bookstore and library. Please note:  It is strongly encouraged to discuss spiritual material with your spiritual father, father confessor or spiritual mother. Visit: https://hocalibrary.blogspot.com/.