“Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.”
– Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment
Dostoyevsky is never an easy read, but yes, he is a must-read. If you want to read him, the best book to start with is “Crime and Punishment.”
Introduction.
On the surface “Crime and Punishment” belongs to the genre of crime novels, but it can also be included in “psychological fiction” and “philosophical novels.”. The title indicates Dostoyevsky’s interest in the “opposites” and “duality” of human nature. The book is a great portrayal of “intrapsychic conflict.”.
Structure.
The structure changes from the hero’s belief in one set of values to the opposite set. Both sets of values coexist. The book is divided into six parts, excluding the epilouge, and therefore can be modified from “linear balance” to two sets of antithesis that cross, somewhat like “X.”.
Philosophy
The main philosophy behind “Crime and Punishment” is the theory of “Ubermench”. Nietzsche formed this theory after Dostoyevsky, taking inspiration from him. Russian Nihilism is also very prominent. It is highlighted with the help of the protagonist, Raskolnikov.
Dream Psychology
According to Sigmund Freud, “dreams are a royal road to the unconscious”. In Crime and Punishment, the author uses dreams to symbolise characters and foreshadow situations.
Symbolism
The main literary device that Dostoyevsky uses throughout the book is symbolism.
- Water symbolism is of major interest throughout the book.
- The intelligent use of the colour yellow makes a reader wonder.
- Blood is also an important symbol in the novel.
- Religious symbols like the “cross” and the story of “Lazarus” are also used very logically.
- The use of an axe by Raskolnikov as a murder weapon symbolises his mental instability. He didn’t believe in his powers. It can also be a symbol of political revolution, as the axe was associated with political rebellion in Russia.
Conclusion
Crime and Punishment is the journey of a criminal from his crime to his redemption. It can thus be added to the genre of “Bildungsroman”. In this book, Dostoevsky’s aim is to show that guilt is the real punishment for a criminal.
“Crime and Punishment” is an amalgamation of literary genres with a tight net of literary techniques. The book takes you on a journey through the psychic and philosophical worlds.