"Crime and Punishment" is a novel written by Fyodor Dostoyevsky and first published in 1866. Set in St. Petersburg, Russia, the story follows the journey of a young man named Rodion Raskolnikov, who is struggling with poverty and nihilistic thoughts.
Raskolnikov believes that some people are extraordinary and have the right to commit crimes for the greater good. He puts this belief into practice by murdering a pawnbroker and her sister. However, the guilt and psychological turmoil that follow his actions drive him to madness and desperation.
As Raskolnikov tries to evade the law and justify his actions to himself, he becomes involved with several other characters, including a compassionate prostitute named Sonya and a detective named Porfiry Petrovich. Through these relationships and his own internal struggles, Raskolnikov ultimately learns the true meaning of redemption and punishment.
"Crime and Punishment" is considered a masterpiece of Russian literature and a seminal work in the psychological novel genre. Its themes of morality, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions continue to resonate with readers today.
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