Final answer:
According to Trofimov, the main problem with Russian intellectuals was their treatment as criminals by the state for engaging in political discussions, leading to risks of arrest and exile. The Russian intelligentsia played a significant role in literature and art, often reflecting the sociopolitical challenges of their times. The oppressive political climate and the eventual push towards radical change characterized the intellectuals' plight and influenced the revolutionary movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
What, according to Trofimov, is the main problem with Russian intellectuals? The central issue that Trofimov highlights concerning Russian intellectuals during the 19th century is their persecution and criminalization by the state for their engagement in political discourse and attempts to seek meaningful change through their enlightenment and works. Intellectuals faced the risk of arrest and exile if they read or discussed political matters, a draconian policy that effectively stifled open intellectual debate and positioned the intelligentsia as potential criminals. This sentiment is captured in the works of great novelists like Dostoevsky, who despite his conservative leanings, also suffered exile.
The Russian intelligentsia was a relatively small, educated, cultured class that contributed significantly to Russian literature and art. The themes of their works often revolved around political issues of their time and a deeper spiritual quest to understand the Russian 'soul'. The constant conflicts with Western ideologies and the state's oppressive stance led to an atmosphere where the quest for knowledge was indirectly equated with criminality. Their art became a form of passive rebellion, as open activism could result in severe consequences such as exile to Siberia.
Furthermore, the overarching sense of pointlessness and lack of prospects for peace for Russia, as mentioned by Trofimov, contributed to the despair felt by intellectuals. Despite a few radicals, like the members of the Narodniks and later the People's Will, trying to educate and mobilize the serfs to rise against the Tsarist autocracy, the larger part of the intelligentsia saw the futility in half-hearted reforms and were increasingly drawn to the concept of revolution as the only way to restructure society. This led to the emergence of influential figures like Lenin, who would go on to play pivotal roles in the radical transformation of Russian society.