Devils is a novel about self-loathing, though this theme is expressed in many different ways. Self-loathing is represented as a destructive and often nihilistic force, leading characters to harm themselves and/or others in ways that can affect both individual lives and society at large.

The most strident expression of self-loathing is Stavrogin, who is desperate for the world to see him as he sees himself. Stavrogin does not like himself. He does not like the wealthy and privileged background from which he emerges, leading him to being indifferent to his own mother. He does not like the society that indulges him, leading him to show empathy to marginalized figures like Marya. This sense of loathing toward himself, his background, and the world he inhabits compels him to commit increasingly terrible sins. In his youth, his breeches of social etiquette and his scandalous behavior were constantly excused by those around him. Anything that was not attributed to youthful exuberance was blamed on a medical condition. Stavrogin, however, sees himself differently. While the world can forgive his actions, he cannot. As his behavior becomes increasingly immoral, he craves judgment. He is desperate for the world to see him as he sees himself, forcing him to commit ever more destructive acts in pursuit of society’s judgment.