Dostoevsky's works demonstrate the idea that deep within the human soul there can never be a purely creative element – it is always intertwined with an inherent impulse toward self-destruction.

Inner Turmoil: The Dual Nature of Humanity in Russian Literature

Dostoevsky's works demonstrate the idea that deep within the human soul there can never be a purely creative element – it is always intertwined with an inherent impulse toward self-destruction. Thus, in "The Idiot," through the words of the character Lebedev, the thought is expressed that "the instinct for self-destruction, alongside the instinct for self-preservation, lives in the heart of humanity" (source: link txt). This assertion underscores that even those individuals most inclined to preserve life harbor destructive impulses, which manifest as a form of masochism in everyday life.

Moreover, Dostoevsky points out that such duality – the destructive impulse – is inseparable from the creative impulse: "Dostoevsky has long noted that the instinct of destruction is as inherent in the human soul as the instinct of creation" (source: link txt). Here, the issue is raised that the true nature of humanity is complex and contradictory, and that only higher guidance (in his case – enlightenment and spiritual direction) can channel these forces into a constructive path.

As for Gogol's works, although the provided citations do not directly pertain to his writings, Gogol's literature is also permeated with depictions of the duality of human nature. In his works, one often sees characters who outwardly strive for normal existence and self-preservation yet experience inner conflicts and manifestations of self-destructiveness – whether through grotesque images or ironic situations reflecting the instability and paradox of the soul.

Thus, literature mirrors the inseparability of the instinct for self-destruction from the instinct for self-preservation through the portrayal of internal struggle, where the conflict between destructive impulses and the drive for life becomes the key driving force behind character development and plot. This idea allows the reader to recognize that human nature cannot be reduced merely to a rational drive for survival – it continuously balances opposing forces, rendering each character, whether in Dostoevsky's or Gogol's works, deeply contradictory and complex.

Supporting citation(s):
"Dostoevsky, through the voice of Lebedev in 'The Idiot,' expresses the idea that 'the instinct for self-destruction, alongside the instinct for self-preservation, lives in the heart of humanity'" (source: link txt).

"Dostoevsky has long noted that the instinct of destruction is as inherent in the human soul as the instinct of creation. They can do this only by being enlightened, guided, and led by God..." (source: link txt).