Name:__________________________________________
Dostoevsky's Notes from the Underground
Assignment One: Part One (pp. 3 - 28)

1. Why does the underground man want to become an insect? (II., p. 5) (20 points)
 
 
 
 

2. The underground man wants to become a "sluggard." (VI., p. 13) Explain his desire in terms of the theme of this course. (20 points)
 
 
 
 
 

3. The underground man claims that we often consciously act contrary to our own self-interest. (VII, pp. 14-15). From your own experience, give an example that would support his claim. (20 points)
 
 
 
 
 

4. What is man's most advantageous advantage? (VIII, pp. 19-22) (20 points)
 
 
 
 

5. The underground man claims that "suffering is the sole cause of consciousness." (IX, p. 24) Why does he say that? (20 points)
 
 
 

Bonus: Characterize the underground man. Among other things, consider his age. (20 points, based on length as well as precision of characterization. You can also use the back of this sheet.)