Crime and Punishment: A Psychological Masterpiece of Guilt, Redemption, and Existential Crisis in 19th-Century Russia

In "Crime and Punishment," Fyodor Dostoyevsky delves into the psychological turmoil of his protagonist, Rodion Raskolnikov, a former student living in St. Petersburg who grapples with profound existential dilemmas. The novel, marked by its rich, dense prose and intricate character development, explores themes of morality, guilt, and redemption against the backdrop of 19th-century Russian society. Dostoyevsky's use of internal monologue allows readers to intimately experience Raskolnikov's mental struggles, blurring the line between perception and reality, which situates the work within the realm of philosophical realism and prefigures later existentialist thought. Dostoyevsky, himself a product of socio-political upheaval, faced considerable personal hardships including imprisonment and exile, which informed his understanding of human suffering and the complexities of morality. His own experiences with poverty and existential doubt resonate throughout "Crime and Punishment," providing depth to Raskolnikov's character and his radical theories on crime and justification. This novel serves as a reflection of Dostoyevsky's poignant views on the human condition and the struggle between rational thought and emotional response. I highly recommend "Crime and Punishment" to readers who seek a profound exploration of morality and the intricacies of the human psyche. This masterpiece not only captivates with its gripping narrative but also challenges readers to ponder the nature of crime, punishment, and the possibility of redemption in their own lives.

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Þýðandi: Constance Garnett

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Rafbók: 19 november 2019