Sociology, Morality, Theophany: Materials and Meaning in Dostoevsky’s 'The Boy at Christ’s Christmas Tree'

• In Event: Iconographies: Freedom and Form

Abstract

In January 1876, Dostoevsky published three Christmas-themed pieces in The Diary of a Writer on the effect of poverty on children. The second, “The Boy at Christ’s Christmas Tree,” is the only creative story and draws elements and inspiration from the other two “publicist” essays. This talk considers the iconographical imagery of the fictional tale to describe the dynamic through which Dostoevsky transforms his notes on social conditions and human morality into theophany. Narrative structure and the meaning of various materials and images within the story provide iconic principles that allow Dostoevsky to explore themes of resurrection and transfiguration that suggest the temporal transposition of Yuletide and Easter.

Author

• Amy Singleton Adams, College of the Holy Cross