The Brothers Karamazov, Part 4, no. 75, Chapter 6 summary
Part 4, no. 75, Chapter 6 of 96 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 6, Ivan recalls his first hospital interview with Smerdyakov, whose explanations persuade him to dismiss suspicion and accept Dmitri’s guilt despite Alyosha’s objections. His relief gives way to troubling questions about his own wishes, and Alyosha’s admission that he suspected Ivan of welcoming the murder sends Ivan back to Smerdyakov.
What happens
- Ivan returns after his father’s funeral, hears Alyosha accuse Smerdyakov, and finds Dmitri’s confused defense unconvincing.
- Doctors confirm Smerdyakov’s severe epilepsy, but Ivan questions him about predicting his attack and urging Ivan to leave.
- Smerdyakov explains his warnings as requests for protection and suggests Ivan knowingly abandons his father.
- Ivan accepts Smerdyakov’s defense, agrees to withhold his claim about faking fits, and finds further testimony persuasive against Dmitri.
- Ivan becomes absorbed in Katerina Ivanovna, but distressing memories revive his doubts about his own conduct.
- Alyosha admits suspecting Ivan of wanting Dmitri to kill their father, and Ivan immediately returns to Smerdyakov.
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
Alyosha confirms Ivan’s fear that his wishes appear to extend beyond passive resentment. The admission immediately precedes Ivan’s return to Smerdyakov.
Quick check
Why does Smerdyakov say he suggests Tchermashnya rather than Moscow?
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
