Fyodor Dostoevsky, a towering figure in world literature, was born on November 11, 1821, in Moscow, Russia. He grew up in a middle-class family; his father was a military doctor and his mother was a homemaker. Dostoevsky's early life was marked by the loss of his mother at a young age, which profoundly affected him and influenced his later writing. He attended the Military Engineering Academy, graduating in 1843, and began a career in the military, but his passion for literature soon took precedence.

Dostoevsky's literary career began with his first novel, "Poor Folk," published in 1846. However, his early success was overshadowed by personal turmoil. In 1849, he was arrested for his involvement with a group of intellectuals discussing revolutionary ideas and was sentenced to death, a sentence later commuted to Siberian exile. This harrowing experience shaped his worldview and deeply influenced his writings, leading to themes of existentialism, morality, and the human condition.

Over the next few decades, Dostoevsky produced some of the most significant works in literary history, including "Crime and Punishment," "The Brothers Karamazov," "The Idiot," and "Notes from Underground." His novels often explore the psychological struggles of his characters, delving into themes of faith, free will, and redemption. He is considered a precursor to existentialism and modern psychology, and his influence can be seen in the works of later writers and thinkers.

In his personal life, Dostoevsky faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties, the death of his first wife, and struggles with epilepsy and gambling addiction. He married twice, with his second marriage to Anna Snitkina proving to be a stabilizing force in his life. Dostoevsky died on February 9, 1881, in St. Petersburg, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike. His profound exploration of human nature and society has secured his place as one of the greatest novelists in history.