The Gambler

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

2197

Title

The Gambler

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A psychological drama exploring the destructive power of gambling addiction through the eyes of a former gambler observing a wealthy Russian family's descent into ruin. Blending sharp social satire with intense introspection, this classic novel captures the tension between rationality and obsession, offering a timeless critique of chance and human weakness.

Summary up to 500 words

In Fyodor Dostoyevsky's *The Gambler*, the narrator returns to find his wealthy Russian patrons, the General, his sister Maria Philipovna, and niece Polina Alexandrovna, in Roulettenberg. Having recently acquired significant wealth, the party is surrounded by European acquaintances, including the enigmatic Mr. Astley and the flamboyant Monsieur de Griers. The narrative centers on the tragic figure of the narrator's grandmother, who squanders her fortune at the casino, manipulated by swindling Polish croupiers. Despite the General's attempts to control the gambling and protect the family honor, he fails, eventually fleeing Paris after a scandal involving his sister. The story vividly depicts the moral decay of the companions and the narrator's own struggle with addiction. Mr. Astley, a former friend, warns the narrator of his lost potential, offering a final sum of money and urging him to quit. The tale delves into profound themes of fate, the illusion of control, and the tragic cycle of ruin that ensnares those who cannot resist the allure of the roulette wheel. The narrative culminates in a reflection on whether redemption is possible after total financial and spiritual collapse, highlighting the narrator's desperate hope to rise from the dead and reclaim his independence, even as he acknowledges the overwhelming power of his nature and the gambling table.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

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Local file path

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Categories

• Psychology
• Classics
• Families
• Gambling