Working on the life and writings of Fyodor Dostoevsky, Dumitru Sevastian has produced an instructive exercise in reconstruction of this influential Russian writer's theology. The book employs James Wm. McClendon's "biography as theology" approach which provides the necessary interpretive lenses through which Dr Sevastian discovers Dostoevsky's convictions and the communities which stood behind them and shaped them. This book demonstrates how life events and communities of influence leave their imprint on one's convictions and embedded theology. This is a good example of how to do theology biographically.
Oleksandr Geychenko, PhD
Rector,
Odesa Theological Seminary, Odesa, Ukraine
It was a pleasure to read this systematically worked through material by Dumitru Sevastian of Dostoevsky's novels. Often I have looked at the question of Dostoevsky and his faith struggles and convictions, reflecting more personally on the Eastern European context and Christianity. This research, that speaks so well to an Eastern Slavic soul, has helped me to see a clearer picture of Dostoevsky and his faith. I very much look forward to seeing this dissertation as a book to be read by many others.
Peter Penner, ThD, Dr Habil
Director of Advanced Studies,
Euro-Asian Accrediting Association
Dr. Dumitru Sevastian's book is excellent research, showing a new perspective on the theology of Dostoevsky through his life experiences and convictions. It is an investigation of character in community through Dostoevsky's main books (The Poor Folk, The House of the Dead and The Brothers Karamazov). Dr. Sevastian has demonstrated how the convictional theology of Dostoevsky can be an example for the life and mission of modern people living in different cultures.
Sergiy Sannikov, PhD
Emeritus President,
Euro-Asian Accrediting Association