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underground man

The underground man is a character from Fyodor Dostoevsky's novel who represents a complex, introspective individual conflicted about society and himself. He is often viewed as a symbol of existential alienation, embodying feelings of alienation, pride, and self-awareness. He oscillates between rejecting social norms and craving human connection, revealing deep psychological struggles. His character explores themes of free will, consciousness, and the nature of self-awareness, making him a key figure in existential literature. Ultimately, he embodies the human tendency to overthink and resist straightforward explanations of one's actions and motives.