UndergroundReferred to the narrator's sociopolitical view that differs from mainstream societies in 19th-century Russia.
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Beneath the surface of the ground."He spent his time in an underground bunker."
A group or movement organized secretly to work against an existing regime."He became part of the political underground."
EgoismA characterization of the narrator's philosophical views about human nature and selfishness.
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An ethical theory that treats self-interest as the foundation of morality."His actions were driven by pure egoism."
InertiaA metaphor for the narrator's reluctance to act or change his circumstances.
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A tendency to do nothing or to remain unchanged."His inertia kept him from pursuing his dreams."
AntipathyThe narrator's hostility or strong aversion to something or someone, especially society.
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A deep-seated feeling of dislike."His antipathy for social conventions was evident."
RetrospectionThe act of reflecting on the past, a prevalent theme in the book.
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The action of looking back on past times."In retrospection, he realized his mistakes."