Crime and Punishment, a novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky, explores the psychological turmoil of Raskolnikov, a former student who believes he is above moral law. Set in St. Petersburg, the narrative delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of crime. Dostoevsky's work reflects his own experiences with suffering and existential despair, shaped by his time in prison and his struggles with poverty. This edition, translated by Constance Garnett, provides readers with a profound exploration of morality and the human condition. Ideal for literature students and fans of classic Russian literature, this text is essential for understanding Dostoevsky's impact on modern thought.

Key Points

  • Explores the psychological conflict of Raskolnikov, a student who commits murder.
  • Examines themes of guilt, redemption, and moral philosophy in 19th-century Russia.
  • Set in St. Petersburg, highlighting the socio-economic struggles of the time.
  • Dostoevsky's personal experiences with suffering inform the narrative's depth.
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967 pages
Literature
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967 pages
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Crime and Punishment
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Translated By Constance Garnett
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TRANSLATOR’S PREFACE
A few words about Dostoevsky himself may help the
English reader to understand his work.
Dostoevsky was the son of a doctor. His parents were
very hard- working and deeply religious people, but so
poor that they lived with their five children in only two
rooms. The father and mother spent their evenings in
reading aloud to their children, generally from books of a
serious character.
Though always sickly and delicate Dostoevsky came
out third in the final examination of the Petersburg school
of Engineering. There he had already begun his first work,
‘Poor Folk.’
This story was published by the poet Nekrassov in his
review and was received with acclamations. The shy,
unknown youth found himself instantly something of a
celebrity. A brilliant and successful career seemed to open
before him, but those hopes were soon dashed. In 1849 he
was arrested.
Though neither by temperament nor conviction a
revolutionist, Dostoevsky was one of a little group of
young men who met together to read Fourier and
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Proudhon. He was accused of ‘taking part in conversations
against the censorship, of reading a letter from Byelinsky
to Gogol, and of knowing of the intention to set up a
printing press.’ Under Nicholas I. (that ‘stern and just
man,’ as Maurice Baring calls him) this was enough, and
he was condemned to death. After eight months’
imprisonment he was with twenty-one others taken out to
the Semyonovsky Square to be shot. Writing to his
brother Mihail, Dostoevsky says: ‘They snapped words
over our heads, and they made us put on the white shirts
worn by persons condemned to death. Thereupon we
were bound in threes to stakes, to suffer execution. Being
the third in the row, I concluded I had only a few minutes
of life before me. I thought of you and your dear ones and
I contrived to kiss Plestcheiev and Dourov, who were
next to me, and to bid them farewell. Suddenly the troops
beat a tattoo, we were unbound, brought back upon the
scaffold, and informed that his Majesty had spared us our
lives.’ The sentence was commuted to hard labour.
One of the prisoners, Grigoryev, went mad as soon as
he was untied, and never regained his sanity.
The intense suffering of this experience left a lasting
stamp on Dostoevsky’s mind. Though his religious temper
led him in the end to accept every suffering with
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FAQs

What is the main theme of Crime and Punishment?
The main theme of Crime and Punishment revolves around the moral dilemmas faced by Raskolnikov, who believes in a theory that certain extraordinary individuals can transgress moral laws for a greater good. This belief leads him to commit murder, but he is subsequently plagued by guilt and paranoia. The novel explores the psychological consequences of his actions, ultimately questioning the nature of morality and justice.
Who are the key characters in Crime and Punishment?
Key characters in Crime and Punishment include Rodion Raskolnikov, the protagonist who struggles with his conscience after committing murder; Sonia Marmeladov, a compassionate young woman who represents redemption; and Porfiry Petrovich, the astute investigator who suspects Raskolnikov. Each character embodies different philosophical perspectives and moral complexities that enrich the narrative.
How does Dostoevsky's life influence Crime and Punishment?
Dostoevsky's life experiences, particularly his time in prison and his encounters with poverty, significantly influence Crime and Punishment. His own suffering and existential struggles are reflected in Raskolnikov's psychological turmoil. The author's exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the human condition is deeply rooted in his personal history, making the novel a profound commentary on morality.
What is the significance of the setting in Crime and Punishment?
The setting of St. Petersburg plays a crucial role in Crime and Punishment, serving as a backdrop that reflects the social and economic conditions of 19th-century Russia. The city's oppressive atmosphere mirrors Raskolnikov's internal conflict and moral decay. Dostoevsky uses the setting to enhance the themes of alienation and despair, illustrating how the environment influences the characters' actions and thoughts.
What philosophical ideas are explored in Crime and Punishment?
Crime and Punishment delves into several philosophical ideas, including utilitarianism, existentialism, and the nature of morality. Raskolnikov's justification for murder is rooted in a utilitarian belief that certain individuals can transcend moral laws for the greater good. The novel challenges readers to consider the implications of such beliefs and the psychological consequences of moral transgressions.
What is the role of redemption in Crime and Punishment?
Redemption plays a pivotal role in Crime and Punishment, particularly through the character of Sonia Marmeladov, who embodies compassion and forgiveness. Her influence on Raskolnikov highlights the possibility of redemption through suffering and love. The novel suggests that true redemption comes from acknowledging one's guilt and seeking atonement, ultimately leading to personal transformation.
How does Crime and Punishment address the concept of guilt?
Crime and Punishment profoundly addresses the concept of guilt, portraying it as an inescapable consequence of moral transgression. Raskolnikov's guilt manifests in psychological torment, leading to paranoia and isolation. Dostoevsky illustrates how guilt can drive individuals toward self-destruction or, conversely, toward a path of redemption, emphasizing its centrality in the human experience.

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