Under Western Eyes

Under Western Eyes by Joseph Conrad, published by Penguin Books in 1989, is a revised edition that spans 350 pages. This novel explores the political turmoil of 19th-century Russia through the eyes of Razumov, a young student on the cusp of a career in the czarist bureaucracy. As he becomes unwittingly involved in the assassination of a public official, Razumov is drawn into a complex web of espionage and moral dilemmas, confronting profound questions of accountability and human integrity.

Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of political strife and personal conflict, set against the backdrop of city life in a tumultuous era. The story intricately weaves elements of fiction and thriller, reflecting on the impact of terrorism and the challenges faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of political upheaval. Conrad’s exploration of these subjects invites reflection on the nature of loyalty and the consequences of one’s choices in a rapidly changing world.