Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky 11 November 1821 – 9 February 1881 sometimes transliterated as Dostoyevsky , was a Russian novelist, short story writer, essayist and journalist. Dostoevsky's literary works explore the in the troubled political, social, and spiritual atmospheres of , and engage with a variety of philosophical and religious themes. His most acclaimed novels include (1866), (1869), (1872), and (1880). His 1864 , is considered to be one of the first works of literature. Numerous literary critics regard him as one of the greatest novelists in all of , as many of his works are considered highly influential masterpieces.