The Brothers Karamazov, Part 4, no. 81, Chapter 2 summary
Part 4, no. 81, Chapter 2 of 96 · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Fetyukovitch challenges prosecution witnesses by questioning their perceptions, motives, and honesty, while Mitya repeatedly interrupts and receives warnings from the judge. These attacks weaken several witnesses’ reputations without overturning the audience’s belief in the prisoner’s guilt, leaving the defense lawyer’s larger purpose unclear.
What happens
- The audience regards the prosecution’s case as overwhelming but expects Fetyukovitch to have a hidden defense strategy.
- Grigory describes Mitya’s violence and insists the garden door stands open, while Fetyukovitch questions his sobriety and perception.
- Fetyukovitch exposes Rakitin’s acceptance of payment for bringing Alexey to Grushenka, damaging his moral authority.
- Captain Snegiryov appears drunk, refuses to discuss Mitya’s assault, and breaks down over his dying son.
- Fetyukovitch challenges Trifon Borissovitch over missing money and exposes the Poles’ cheating at cards.
- Observers admire the lawyer’s methods but remain unsure how discrediting witnesses can defeat the prosecution.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of The Brothers Karamazov, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
In this chapter
What to notice
Mitya accepts Grigory’s account of his misconduct while rejecting one crucial observation. His response separates gratitude toward the servant from disagreement over evidence.
Quick check
What damages Rakitin’s standing during cross-examination?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of The Brothers Karamazov, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
