Which Edition

Fyodor Dostoevsky

The Idiot

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Cover of The Idiot, translated by Alan Myers
Best for most

Alan Myers · 1992

Alan Myers's Oxford translation is the one I'd start with — reviewers single it out for the best balance of smoothness and fidelity, with a strong introduction by William Leatherbarrow. This is where I'd start.

Cover of The Idiot, translated by Pevear & Volokhonsky
Most popular

Pevear & Volokhonsky · 2001

Pevear and Volokhonsky's is the contemporary standard, widely used and close to the Russian. A bit more effortful than Myers; the choice if you want the version scholars most often cite.

Cover of The Idiot, translated by David McDuff
Most literal

David McDuff · 2004

David McDuff's Penguin translation pushes literalism furthest — admirable for fidelity, though the convoluted result can be heavy going. For readers who want the Russian shape at all costs.

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