The First, the Rightful Lover (Book VIII: Mitya, facing p.320) 1949

Fritz Eichenberg created this lithograph, ‘The First, the Rightful Lover’ to illustrate Dostoevsky’s novel, *The Brothers Karamazov*. Eichenberg, a German-American artist, was deeply influenced by his experience of social and political turmoil in 20th century Europe, which shaped his commitment to social justice. Here, he depicts a scene of moral decay through the exaggerated features and postures of the characters. The artist offers a stark commentary on power, corruption, and the decline of traditional values in modern society. This is emphasized through caricature, a popular tool for social critique. The composition reflects a sense of unease, highlighting the psychological tension between the characters and suggesting the complex relationships within the novel. To fully appreciate Eichenberg’s work, one can draw on literary criticism, historical research, and biographical studies. By exploring these resources, we gain insight into the artist’s intentions and the broader cultural context that shaped his work.