Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky PDF

Crime and Punishment is a profound novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky that explores the psychological turmoil of its protagonist, Raskolnikov, a former student living in St. Petersburg. The story delves into themes of morality, guilt, and redemption as Raskolnikov grapples with the consequences of committing murder. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia, the novel examines the social and philosophical dilemmas faced by its characters. This classic work is essential for students of literature and philosophy, offering deep insights into human nature and ethical considerations. Readers will encounter a rich tapestry of characters and a gripping narrative that challenges the boundaries of right and wrong.

Key Points

Explores the psychological conflict of Raskolnikov after committing murder
Examines themes of morality, guilt, and redemption in 19th-century Russia
Features a diverse cast of characters that illustrate social dilemmas
Analyzes Dostoevsky's philosophical inquiries into human nature and ethics

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767 pages

Language:English

Type:Book

Literature

newtopiccyclegrowin

767 pages

Language:English

Type:Book

Literature

260

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Crime and Punishment

By Fyodor Dostoevsky

C  P

Translator’s Preface

few words about Dostoevsky himself may help the Eng-

lish 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 charac-

ter.

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, un-

known 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 revolu-

tionist, Dostoevsky was one of a little group of young men

who met together to read Fourier and Proudhon. He was ac-

cused 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.

F B  P B.

(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 tak-

en 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 resignation

and to regard it as a blessing in his own case, he constantly

recurs to the subject in his writings. He describes the awful

agony of the condemned man and insists on the cruelty of

inflicting such torture. Then followed four years of penal

servitude, spent in the company of common criminals in

Siberia, where he began the ‘Dead House,’ and some years

of service in a disciplinary battalion.

He had shown signs of some obscure nervous disease be-

fore his arrest and this now developed into violent attacks of

Overview

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky (2)

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FAQs of Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky (2)

What are the main themes of Crime and Punishment?

Crime and Punishment delves into several key themes, including the nature of guilt and redemption, the morality of crime, and the psychological struggles of the individual. Raskolnikov's internal conflict after committing murder serves as a focal point for exploring these themes. The novel also addresses existential questions about the meaning of life and the consequences of one's actions, making it a rich text for philosophical discussion.

Who is the protagonist of Crime and Punishment and what is his struggle?

The protagonist of Crime and Punishment is Raskolnikov, a former student who believes he is above moral law and commits murder to prove his theory. His struggle revolves around the psychological and emotional turmoil that follows this act, as he grapples with guilt, paranoia, and the search for redemption. Throughout the novel, Raskolnikov's interactions with other characters highlight his internal conflict and the societal implications of his actions.

How does Crime and Punishment reflect the social issues of its time?

Crime and Punishment reflects the social issues of 19th-century Russia, including poverty, class disparity, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Dostoevsky uses Raskolnikov's character to explore the impact of these societal pressures on personal ethics and choices. The novel critiques the philosophical ideologies of the time, particularly nihilism and utilitarianism, and their effects on human behavior.

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 reflection of Raskolnikov's mental state and the broader societal issues of the time. The city's oppressive atmosphere mirrors Raskolnikov's isolation and turmoil, while its social landscape highlights the struggles of various characters. Dostoevsky's vivid descriptions of the city enhance the novel's themes and provide a rich context for the unfolding drama.

What literary techniques does Dostoevsky use in Crime and Punishment?

Dostoevsky employs various literary techniques in Crime and Punishment, including psychological realism, stream of consciousness, and symbolism. The use of psychological realism allows readers to delve deeply into Raskolnikov's thoughts and emotions, creating a complex portrait of his character. Symbolism, such as the recurring motif of the city and its oppressive environment, enhances the thematic depth of the narrative.