Crime and Punishment

by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

Overview

As Raskolnikov's guilt consumes him, he finds himself drawn to the virtuous and devout Sonya, a young woman forced into prostitution to support her family. Through his interactions with Sonya, Raskolnikov begins to confront the immorality of his actions and the harm they have caused to others.

The novel also delves into the social and political issues of 19th century Russia, including poverty, crime, and the harsh realities faced by the lower classes. Dostoyevsky's vivid descriptions of the slums and dark corners of St. Petersburg provide a bleak backdrop for the moral struggles of his characters.

Throughout the novel, Dostoyevsky challenges the reader to consider the nature of crime, punishment, and redemption. Can a person truly be forgiven for committing a heinous act? Is it possible for someone to change their ways and become a better person?

"Crime and Punishment" is a masterpiece of literature, blending philosophical inquiry with psychological depth and a gripping plot. Its themes and characters have inspired countless adaptations and interpretations, cementing its place in the canon of world literature.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940185602195
Publisher:	Peter Kattan
Publication date:	04/04/2023
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	631 KB

About the Author

Fyodor Dostoyevsky was a Russian author and philosopher born on November 11, 1821, in Moscow, Russia. He was the second son of Mikhail Dostoyevsky, a retired military surgeon, and Maria Dostoyevskaya. Dostoyevsky's childhood was marked by tragedy when his mother died of tuberculosis in 1837, and his father was murdered by his serfs in 1839.

After completing his education, Dostoyevsky began writing and publishing his works in the 1840s. His early works, such as "Poor Folk" and "The Double," gained him critical acclaim and a reputation as a rising literary star.

In 1849, Dostoyevsky was arrested for his involvement in a political group that advocated for social and political reform. He was sentenced to death but was granted a last-minute reprieve and instead sent to a prison camp in Siberia. It was during his time in prison that Dostoyevsky began to explore the themes of morality, guilt, and redemption that would later become central to his writing.

After his release from prison in 1854, Dostoyevsky continued to write and publish, producing some of his most celebrated works, including "Crime and Punishment," "The Brothers Karamazov," and "Notes from Underground."

Dostoyevsky's writing was deeply influenced by his own experiences of suffering, poverty, and imprisonment. His characters were complex and multifaceted, often struggling with the moral dilemmas of their time.

Despite his literary success, Dostoyevsky struggled with personal and financial difficulties throughout his life. He suffered from epilepsy and gambling addiction, and his financial struggles often led him to the brink of bankruptcy.

Dostoyevsky died on February 9, 1881, in St. Petersburg, Russia. His works continue to be celebrated for their profound insights into the human psyche and their exploration of the moral and philosophical questions that continue to challenge us today.