As part two of Crime and Punishment comes to an end, Raskolnikov still cannot forget his doing. He continues walking down the path of unavoidable guilt. He wishes to redeem himself through the act of compassion and human affection. When Raskolnikov finds Marmaledov in the streets after getting run over by a carriage, Raskolnikov carries Marmaledov home, where he dies. To further alleviate his growing guilt, Raskolnikov gives Marmaledov’s family the 20 rubles he received from his mother. Other than helping out a devastated family, he wanted to ease his guilt by committing good deeds, believing that these kinds of acts can help him forget his sins. On the 1st impression, Raskolnikov was a cold-hearted person; however, as the book progresses, readers see that his biggest obstacle is his capricious behavior. When he almost confesses his crimes to Zamyotov through impulsive action shows that Raskolnikov has yet to overcome himself.
Dostoevsky shows us the compassionate side of Raskolnikov and helping Marmaledov’s family is the first step towards redemption.
posted by John I.
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I agree with your comment and it reminded me of something I found odd. While as you mention Rodya commits many acts of kindness which can be seen as attempts at redemption, Rodya rarely mentions his intention for committing the crime as an excuse for the murder. His intentions I would have thought would at least in his mind aid in justifying what he did and allow him to ease the guilt he has.
ReplyDelete-Matt S.