The Idiot is a novel by the Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky, first published in 1869. It is one of Dostoevsky's major works and a profound exploration of human psychology, morality, and society. The novel centers on Prince Lev Nikolayevich Myshkin, a young man whose innocence, honesty, and kindness are seen as foolishness by the world around him, hence the title "The Idiot."

The novel is characterized by Dostoevsky's deep psychological insight and exploration of philosophical and theological issues. The narrative is rich in dialogue and internal monologues, delving into the minds of the characters to reveal their inner conflicts and motivations.

The Idiot has been regarded as one of Dostoevsky's most complex works. While it was not as commercially successful as some of his other novels during his lifetime, it is now considered one of the greatest novels ever written. It influenced later existential and psychological literature and continues to be studied for its philosophical depth.