Ivan and Alyosha Converse Summary

As one might expect, Alyosha takes exception to Ivan's "poem," particularly the Inquisitor's vision of freedom. Only some elements within the Roman Catholic Church seek dominion, says Alyosha, and not because they wish to spare humanity the burden of freedom, but rather for simple material gain.

Ivan teases his brother once again, telling him to calm down, as his poem is just a fantasy. Ivan adds a "but," however: he asks Alyosha if he really thinks the Roman Catholic Church is solely about material gain, and not about operating according to an authoritarian program. Alyosha concedes that Ivan is probably right on that count, and has even heard something similar from one of his teachers. Alyosha quickly amends the latter statement, claiming some variation between Ivan and his teacher.

Ivan defends his Inquisitor by suggesting there must...