Journal Six - 1/16/08

Is Dmitry a Scoundrel?

Thinking back on the events of chapters eight and nine. I would have to conclude that Dmitry is a scoundrel. Although Dmitry was angry he disrespected his father, pushed him and threatened him. This is simply not appropriate not matter the circumstances.

In Chapter Eight, Dmitry comes bursting in screaming that Gruschenka must be hidden in his father's house at once. He does not even take the time to ask if in fact she was there. He is immediately disrespectful and demanding. This is the wrong thing to do. Even if Dmitry and his father disagree with each other, Fyodor is still his father, Dmitry owes him respect.

Dmitry is so concerned about himself he does even take the time to ask nicely. In the chaos, Fyodor accuses him of stealing money. As soon as Dmitry hears this he pushes his father on the floor, screams at him, threatens to kill him, and runs out of the house. This is evidence enough to prove that Dmitry is a scoundrel.

In all of this created chaos, which could of been avoided, had Dmitry been respectful, it is clear that Dmitry is in fact a scoundrel. In the course of two short chapters, Dmitry yells at his father, pushes him down, and threatens to kill him. Some might also say Fyodor is a scoundrel too, as he treated Alyosha poorly. Nevertheless, Dmitry was rude and disrespectful to his own father. This is unacceptable.