sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Dostoevsky's life, beginning with a dedication to the author's Russian friends and followed by the author's own reflections on the challenges of portraying Dostoevsky amidst those who knew him personally. Hoffmann emphasizes the unique aspects of Dostoevsky as a literary figure, expressing concerns about how his complex character and the depth of his literary contributions may not be fully understood or appreciated. The first chapter begins to outline Dostoevsky's early milieu and offers insight into his childhood and youth, preparing the reader for the detailed chronology and analysis that follows in his life story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)