"I don't understand how one can walk by a tree and not be happy at the sight of it! Or to speak with a man and not be happy in loving him?… There are so many things at every step so beautiful."

During the engagement party at the Yepanchins' in Part IV, Chapter 7, Prince Myshkin speaks about his feelings on life and religion. He expresses his infinite joy of seeing the products of nature, namely the earth and men. He loves these examples of God's creation and he delights in their ultimate beauty. In addition to characterizing the prince in his love for nature and humanity, this quotation emphasizes Dostoevsky's exploration of beauty. In his compassion toward others and his humble joy, which he derives from people and from love, Myshkin exemplifies spiritual beauty. Hippolite mentions that the prince once told him that he believes that beauty can save the world. Indeed, if more people performed such beautiful actions as helping a friend or forgiving an enemy, perhaps the world could be cured of its corruption. By attempting to create Myshkin as a truly beautiful individual, Dostoevsky gives us an ideal that can serve as an example for the kinds of feelings and actions that can combat the moral corruption of the world and ultimately make it a better place.