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Crime and Punishment, Essay Example

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Crime is a violent act with an aim of hurting other individual. The aim of a crime is to destabilize the peace and tranquillity of the society. There are various aspects that make up a crime. They include:

  • The nature of the crime
  • The motive of the crime
  • Whether the culprit was caught or not
  • The punishment
  • The reason of the punishment
  • The effectiveness of the punishment

The above aspects are vital in understanding crime and punishment. Crime has origin like any other thing in existence. There are theories that have been brought up to understand crime with an aim of stopping it. These criminals behaviour are known to have been triggered by something to do these acts of violence. There are some French and Italian thinkers who have come up with various schools of thought to understand crime and the motives behind them. These thinkers have been able to understand the minds of criminals. Understanding the minds of the criminals can lead to early prevention of crime (Tonry, 2000).

The punishment for the crimes is something that has evolved through the ages. The punishment was meant to change the behaviour of the perpetrator and was to be fitting to the crime. This is something that initially brought up a lot of problems since the perpetrators came out not reformed. It is something that has changed over the ages as various reformers have come up to change the status quo.  These reformers made a significant difference and the change was positive. The main reason for punishment is being achieved now. This is now up for debate since change comes from an individual choice to change their habit and behaviour ( Dostoevsky, 2004).

Tonry H. Michael . (2000). The Handbook of Crime & Punishment . Foster City, CA: Oxford University press.

Dostoevsky F. (2004). Crime and Punishment Enriched Classics . Kentucky: Simon and Schuster.

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Crime and Punishment

Introduction to crime and punishment.

Crime and Punishment was written by Fyodor Dostoevsky . It is the tour de force that presents the post-reform Russia through the character of Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov. The novel first started appearing in series in The Russian Messenger, a literary journal, during the year 1866 and impacted many readers. Later, when the single-volume hit the shelves, it proved an instant success for Dostoevsky. Often referred to as the Russian masterpiece, Crime and Punishment continues to fascinate generations both in the East as well as in the West. The book was translated into various languages.

Summary of Crime and Punishment

Rodion Raskolnikov is living in St. Petersburg, facing acute poverty despite having handsome looks and an intelligent mind. After some thought, he plans to kill the pawnbroker widow, Alyona, to have her money. However, finds himself involved in the familial issues of Marmeladov after he has had a brawl with his wife, Katerina, and sees their messy life. On the following day, he receives information from his brother Pulcheria Alexandrovna about his sister’s marriage, Duyna, and his family’s migration to the same city. Instead of paying attention to this familial issue, he overhears some people talking about the death of the same pawnbroker. After this, he visits her to kill her and tries to find money instead he finds her sister. Rodion kills her, too, and escapes empty-handed.

The next day Rodion tries to wash all traces of the blood of the old woman whom he murdered a day before when the police call him. Though the call is not relevant to the murder, it is his landlady trying to extort money from him. The police suspect him of any crime and they do not find any clue either. He also hides things he has taken from the widow. Meanwhile, Rodion visits Dmitri, his friend, who has offered him work but he rejects his offer, comes back home, and faints. When he comes to his senses, he finds his landlady and his friend taking care of him. They inform him about the arrival of the doctor and a police detective. Although they sense his discomfort at the mention of the murder, they do not suspect him.

Later, Rodion’s sister and her fiancé visit him after which he meets Zamyotov, the police detective, before whom he almost admits his hand in the murder yet it doesn’t raise any kind of suspicion. Unfortunately, he finds Marmeladov killed in an accident while he assists Sonya and his mother. When his sister and brother-in-law come again to meet him, he asks them to part ways, while his friend Dmitri also tries to explain his involvement with them. After some thought, he seeks an apology for his behavior and admits having given money to Marmeladov, expressing his fury over his sister and his fiancé for marrying her. When he meets Sonya after that he agrees to join her father’s final rituals. Soon Rodion meets the investigator and talks about the murder. However, again it comes to naught, as a stranger follows him whom he found in his room in that morning. He suspects him having discovered his secret but the stranger shares another plan, talking to him about his sister’s fiancé whom he does not like, and offers a huge sum to him to leave his sister.

Following this, Rodion meets his friend Dmitri who tells him about the police and their suspicion about him being the assassin while discussing the affair of Dunya’s marriage. To their luck, Luzhin, whom Dunya is going to marry, insults everybody, causing the dissolution of the engagement. Both Rodion and Dmitri talk about establishing the business as well as helping Dunya. After a while, he leaves for Sonya where she narrates to him the story of Jesus and Lazarus when Svidrigailov spies on them. Following this incident, he meets the eavesdropping police officer Porfiry to discuss the murder but Nikolai, a suspect, arrested for that murder, breaks in and confesses his involvement, leaving him confused. Later, he comes to know that the confessor has no clues about his crime. Then, he bumps into Sonya and Luzhin after which he confesses the murder before Sonya and his motives for killing the lady. He also finds himself mixed up in the affairs of Sonya who encourages him to confess before the authority. She soon leaves and Svidrigailov informs her that he knows about the murder too.

Dmitri goes to meet his friend to tell him about Rodion’s mental condition and the situation his mother and sister have gone through because of him. The police officer, Porfiry, arrives and explains Nikolai’s situation and also tells him that he knows his crime but has no evidence to arrest him. Instead of confessing, Rodion goes after Svidrigailov who tells him about his involvement with a young girl. Then, he goes to meet his mother and comes to know that Svidrigailov has committed suicide after which Rodion goes straight to the police station. He finds Sonya and confesses his crime after which the police arrest him. Finally, they send Rodion to Siberia for the murder.

Major Themes in Crime and Punishment

  • Alienation: Crime and Punishment shows the thematic strand of alienation of an individual from society through Rodion Raskolnikov. Although he struggles to work hard, he falls low. He commits the crime and kills the pawnbroker lady. That makes him paranoid with the suspicion that he may face arrest at any time. This also leads him to feel estranged from Dunya, his sister, as well as Sonya, his lover, whom he could not marry. His extreme self-reflective nature causes him to have delirious fits of temperament. However, he soon comes to the point that he is alien in a society where he should join the others by confessing his crime after Sonya forces him to do the right thing. Finally, he feels that he has alienated not only his friend, Razumikhin but also Sonya whom he loves, and admits it by the end of the story.
  • Crimes and Morality: The novel shows the world of crime and the feeling of moral sense through Raskolnikov and his act of murdering the pawnbroker lady. He thinks it is his right to murder if that contributes to his greatness or having good career prospects. This seems that he has lost the moral sense of doing right or wrong. His justification of the murder does not hold weight until Sonya point’s that to him. Rodion then breaks down realizing his mistake. However, Nikolai enters the scene and confuses the police. Though, Rodion has committed the murder and even starts by confessing. Finally, when he faces the punishment of exile to Siberia, his atonement starts, making him morally satisfied.
  • Free Will: Free will is a secondary theme of Crime and Punishment. The first instance of this free appears with Rodion’s action when he kills the pawnbroker lady. It has never occurred to him that it the mind that made him do that and he had a choice. From this act of free will to his next acts of taunting his sister, Dunya, seducing Sonya and letting her go and even his confession before Pirfory are all examples of his free will. Yet it seems coincident that Nikolai does confess even before him. These things mix up the concept of free will, yet they show that human beings commit acts on their own, showing they are having free will.
  • Madness: The novel highlights the theme of madness through the character of Rodion Raskolnikov and how it impacts him first when he decides to kill the pawnbroker lady and then experiences fit of madness, and then further severe hallucinations when the police try to get evidence on him. Sonya also suffers from depression while his friend, Marlmeladov’s drinking leads him to another type of madness. Svidrigailov also experiences madness after facing rejection from Dunya.
  • Suffering: The novel not only highlights suffering but also the ways to redeem oneself from the causes. Rodion murders the old lady, a crime that haunts him throughout his life until he confesses it before the police officer. He suffers after the act, impacting all his near and dear ones. When he finally goes to Siberia to take his punishment, he experiences peace.
  • Nihilism: The theme of nihilism is apparent through the resigned attitude of Rodion Raskolnikov after he murders the old lady, Alyona, and his sister, though the second murder is purely coincident. His comments about the lady as a good-for-nothing show his nihilism, including his indifferent attitude toward his mother and sister.
  • Moral Framework: The theme of a moral or ethical framework through the murder is observed in this story. When Rodion kills the lady, he has not given any attention to the moral framework, though, there is one in the Russian context . Leaving this moral framework causes him a moral as well as a mental dilemma .
  • Psychology of Crime: The novel shows the theme of the psychology of crime through its main character, Rodion Raskolnikov, who kills the pawnbroker lady merely because he needed money, after learning that the lady has money and resources. As soon as he commits the crime, he is paranoid, thinking that every policeman is after him. He keeps trying to get caught and escape the police, thinking that the police already know about his crime. He believes they are after him. At one point, Rodion breaks down and confesses his crime. Porfiry shows him Nikolai who has already confessed the crime despite having no clue of the actual murder. Finally, when he confesses, it is too late. Rodion accepts his fate after he is dispatched to Siberia to serve his punishment.
  • Superiority Complex: The novel also shows the theme of the superiority complex as opposed to the inferiority complex. As Rodion Raskolnikov suffers from it. He thinks that he is superior to all others around him, including his sister, Dunya, and his friend Razumikhin, who tries to stay with him until the end when Rodion is punished after he confesses the crime. However, this becomes complex when he starts having fits of hallucination after he loses his own ethical framework after the murder. The guilt of committing murder and the ensuing mental conflict leads him nowhere. Finally, he’s sent to Siberia where the police send him after the confession of his crime. This makes him let go of his superiority complex as he resigns to his fate.
  • Utilitarianism: Rodion’s justification for murdering Alyona is based on his utilitarian thinking of having money enough to lead a comfortable life.

Major Characters of Crime and Punishment

  • Rodion Romanych Raskolnikov: Rodion is the protagonist and the central figure of the storyline. The story starts with his obsession to earn money followed by his act of crime, murdering Alyona, the pawn broker lady, and her sister. This double murder further leads him to experience a mental breakdown when the police pursue the case. While trying to escape the punishment, he also has to take care of his mother and Dunya, his sister, including his sweetheart, Sonya, and his friends, and acquaintances. He becomes paranoid and depressed, and he continuously falls sick and even falls unconscious due to the impending fear of the police and punishment. He continues to hide from the police and his confession is not given serious consideration either. The police can’t arrest him without evidence. He falls apart and becomes indifferent towards Sonya and his sister, including her brother-in-law. Finally, with Sonya’s encouragement, he confesses his crime and is sent to Siberia to serve his punishment, which he accepts with peace.
  • Sonya Marmeladov: Sonya meets Rodion immediately after he wants greatness following the death of the pawnbroker lady, Alyona, and her sister. She provides Rodion necessary emotional and monetary support. Sadly, she doesn’t see a future with him, as he stays engaged with the dilemma of his crime he had committed. She is poor but holds high moral standards. Thus playing a very important role in Rodion’s transformation in the end. She persuades him to confess his crime and free himself from the mental torture he has been undergoing since the day he had murdered both women. She stands by Rodion despite his difficult times and accompanies Rodion to Siberia even though she knows that he has to be away to endure his punishment.
  • Dmitri Razumikhin: Dmitri is a close friend of Rodion and knows that he would not abandon the idea of greatness. Despite his inept thinking and action, Dmitri is quite generous and assists his friend in many ways including providing support to his sister and mother. A down-to-earth humble person, he does not take much care of the mental predicament that his friend is undergoing. He remains loyal by marrying Dunya, Rodion’s sister by the end of the novel.
  • Dunya Romanovna: Dunya is Rodion’s sister. She is taunted by him and even goes after her when she is engaged to Luzhin. She finally comes to know about her brother’s crime, murdering two women. She asks him to give himself over to the authorities. However, it is interesting that she saves herself from Svidrigailov and Luzhin with Rodion’s help. Finally, she marries Rodion’s loyal friend, Dmitri.
  • Svidrigailov: Svidrigailov is a manipulator and works for Dunya. He pursues Dunya and becomes bitter when he can’t marry her. However, it is interesting to note that he assists the family several times which can be interpreted as parts of his seductive efforts toward her. He commits suicide after he fails to win her.
  • Marfa Petrovna Svidrigailov: Marfa is Svidrigailov’s wife. She comes to his financial rescue. Despite knowing his promiscuous nature, she stays loyal and later assists Dunya to meet Luzhin. Her goodness of heart stays after her death when it becomes apparent that she has willed her entire property to Dunya.
  • Zakharovich Marmeladov: Marmeladoy is an alcoholic and an ex-civil servant. Rodion and Semyon suffer from the same ailment poverty and guilt. In spite of his awareness of his addiction, he continues to ruin his life and his family’s and three children until his death.
  • Katerina Marmeladov: Katerina is Semyon’s wife. She suffers from tuberculosis as well as her husband’s addiction. She remains honest and hardworking. Although she is from the upper class, she suffers from an abusive husband first. Out of love and kindness , she leaves all her savings to Sonya and her daughter.
  • Pyotr Petrovich Luzhin: An arrogant rich person, Luzhin tries his best to deceive Dunya into marriage but Rodion’s timely interference saves her from his deceit.
  • Pulcheria Alexandrovna: Pulcheria is Rodion’s mother. She has premonitions about the doom of her son. She later briefs him about the harrowing situations both, she and her daughter, have gone through.

Writing Style of Crime and Punishment

The story is written in third-person narrative and dramatic form. Crime and Punishment exhibit Dostoyevsky’s dexterous use of drama in fiction , using short as well as long sentences and alluring syntax . The most important passages related to philosophy, mental dilemmas, and the moral predicament of all characters are not only catchy but also highly seductive in terms of diction and formality. For literary devices , Dostoyevsky turns to similes, metaphors , and personifications to make his fictional prose vibrant and lively.

Analysis of the Literary Devices in Crime and Punishment

  • Action: The main action of the novel comprises the murder of Alyona, a pawnbroker widow, by the protagonist, Raskolnikov, and his post-murder life until his confession and subsequent punishment. The falling action occurs when confesses and is subsequently sent to Siberia as punishment, while the rising action occurs when he kills Alyona and her sister in Alyona’s apartment.
  • Allusion : The sentences are examples of allusions, i. The sky was cloudless and the water was almost bright blue, which is so rare in the Neva. The dome of the cathedral, which is seen at its best from the bridge about twenty paces from the chapel, glittered in the sunlight, and in the pure air every ornament on it could be clearly distinguished. (Part -2, Chapter -3) ii. “Oh, damn . . . these are the items of intelligence. An accident on a staircase, spontaneous combustion of a storekeeper from alcohol, a fire in Peski . . . a fire in the Petersburg quarter . . . another fire in the Petersburg quarter . . . and another fire in the Petersburg quarter . . . Ah, here it is!” (Part -2, Chapter -5) Both of these examples allude to the Neva, cathedral, and the Petersburg quarters.
  • Anaphora : The following sentence are good examples of anaphora , i. The essential question was settled, and irrevocably settled, in his mind: “Never such a marriage while I am alive, and Mr. Luzhin be damned!” (Chapter -4) ii. Hm . . . So it is finally settled; you have determined to marry a rational business man, Avdotia Romanovna, one who has a fortune (has already made his fortune, that is so much more solid and impressive), a man who holds two government posts and who shares the ideas of our most rising generation, as mother writes, and who ‘seems to be kind,’ as Dunechka herself observes. That seems beats everything! And that very Dunechka is marrying that very ‘seems’! Splendid! splendid! (Chapter -4) iii. He walked on without resting. He had a terrible longing for some distraction, but he did not know what to do, what to attempt. A new overwhelming sensation was gaining more and more mastery over him every moment; it was an immeasurable, almost physical repulsion for everything surrounding him, a stubborn, malignant feeling of hatred. (Part -2, Chapter -3) These examples show the repetitious use of “settled”, “fortune”, “seems” and “what to.”
  • Antagonist : There is more than one antagonist in the novel. For example, Luzhin, the fiancé of his sister Dunya, Ilya Petrovic, and the landlady try their best to obstruct Rodion from realizing his dream of achieving greatness.
  • Conflict : The novel shows both external and internal conflicts. The external conflict is going on between Rodion and the police about the murder he has committed. However, the internal conflict is his mental conflict about the morality of his action.
  • Characters: The novel, Crime and Punishment, shows both static as well as dynamic characters. The young man, Rodion, is a dynamic character as he shows a considerable transformation in his behavior and conduct by the end of the novel after he confesses his crime and goes to Siberia for punishment. However, all other characters are static as they do not show or witness any transformation such as Dunya, Svidrigailov, and Razumikhin including his own mother.
  • Climax : The climax in the novel occurs when he accepts his punishment and feels peaceful after he kills the widow, Alyona, and her sister, in their apartment.
  • Foreshadowing : The novel has many instances of foreshadows. A few examples are given below, i. On an exceptionally hot evening early in July a young man came out of the tiny room which he rented from tenants in S. Place and walked slowly, as though in hesitation, towards K. Bridge. (Chapter -1) ii. He woke up late next day after a troubled sleep. But his sleep had not refreshed him; he woke up bilious, irritable, ill-tempered, and looked with hatred at his room. (Chapter -3) iii. Instantly he thrust them all under his overcoat and fixed his eyes intently upon her. Far as he was from being capable of rational reflection at that moment, he felt that no-one would behave like that with a person who was going to be arrested. “But . . . The police?” (Part -2, Chapter -1) The mention of the hot evening, hesitation, sleep, and his character traits point to something sinister that Rodion is going to do.
  • Imagery : The following sentences are examples of imagery , i. He was, by the way, exceptionally handsome, above average in height, slim, well-built, with beautiful dark eyes and dark brown hair. Soon, though, he sank into deep thought, or more accurately speaking into a complete blankness of mind; he walked along not observing what was around him and not caring to observe it. (Chapter -1) ii. His nervous shudder had passed into a fever that made him feel shivering; in spite of the heat he felt cold. With a kind of effort he began almost unconsciously, from some inner necessity, to stare at all the objects before him, as though looking for something to distract his attention; but he did not succeed, and kept lapsing every moment into brooding. (Chapter-5) iii. He was in full possession of his faculties, free from confusion or giddiness, but his hands were still trembling. He remembered afterwards that he had been particularly cautious and careful, trying all the time not to get stained . . .He pulled out the keys at once, they were all, as before, in one bunch on a steel ring. He ran at once into the bedroom with them. (Chapter -7) These examples show images of length, height, movements, and feelings.
  • Metaphor : Crime and Punishment shows good use of metaphors. The following sentences are examples of metaphors, i. It was a long while since he had received a letter, but another feeling also suddenly stabbed his heart. (Chapter -3) ii. A gloomy sensation of agonizing, eternal solitude and remoteness took conscious form in his soul. (Part -2, Chapter -!) These examples show that several things have been compared directly in the novel such as the first shows feeling compared with a knife, isolation compared with the driver of control, and sleep with a lake.
  • Mood : The novel, Crime and Punishment, shows a commonplace dull mood in the beginning but turns out highly absurd as well as tragic when Rodion kills the widow. The mood turns to be confusing and ironic when Rodion tries to dodge the police and cope with the confusion and mental torture he comes across after the murder.
  • Motif : Most important motifs of the novel, Crime and Punishment, are poverty, vision, mental dilemma, and morality.
  • Narrator : The novel, Crime and Punishment, is narrated by the third-person narrator , who happens to be Fyodor Dostoevsky himself.
  • Parallelism : The novel shows the use of parallelism in the following examples, i. The landlady who provided him with the room and with dinner and service lived on the floor below, and every time he went out he was obliged to pass her kitchen, the door of which was always open. (Chapter -1) ii. He had given up attending to matters of practical importance; he had lost all desire to do so. (Chapter -1) iii. It would have been difficult to sink to a lower ebb of slovenliness, but to Raskolnikov in his present state of mind this was even agreeable. (Chapter -3) iv. He drove away thought; thought tortured him. (Part -2, Chapter -5) These three examples show the parallel structure of the sentences used by Dostoevsky.
  • Paradox : The following sentences show examples of paradox from the novel, i. Almost from the first, while he read the letter, Raskolnikov’s face was wet with tears; but when he finished it, his face was pale and distorted and a bitter, wrathful and malignant smile was on his lips. (Chapter -3) ii. Yes, he remembered that he began laughing a thin, nervous noiseless laugh, and went on laughing all the time he was crossing the square.” (Part -2, Chapter -2) iii. “Evidence against him! Evidence that was no evidence, and that’s what we have to prove. (Part -2, Chapter -4) These examples show that the writer has put paradoxical ideas or things together.
  • Personification : The following sentences are examples of personifications, i. The letter was quivering in his hand; he did not want to open it in her presence; he wanted to be left alone with this letter. (Chapter -3) ii. At last he was conscious of his former fever and shivering, and he realized with relief that he could lie down on the sofa. Soon heavy, leaden sleep came over him, as though crushing him. (Chapter -6) iii. “Good evening, Aliona Ivanovna,” he began, trying to speak as casually as possible, but his voice would not obey him, it broke and shook. “I have come . . . I have brought something . . . but we’d better go over here . . . to the light . . .”. (Chapter -7) iv. At first he thought he was going mad. A dreadful chill came over him; but the chill was from the fever that had begun long before in his sleep. (Part -2, Chapter -1) v. At the end of the courtyard, the corner of a low, seedy stone shed, apparently part of some workshop, peeped from behind the hoarding. (Part -2, Chapter -2) These examples show if the letter, sleep, voice, chill, and shed have life and emotions of their own.
  • Protagonist : Rodion is the protagonist of the novel. The novel starts with his entry into the story, his family situation, his own problem, and above all the murder he commits.
  • Rhetorical Questions : The following examples of rhetorical questions are given below, i. “Why am I not at the office? Does not my heart ache to think what a useless worm I am? A month ago when Mr. Lebeziatnikov beat my wife with his own hands, and I lay drunk, didn’t I suffer? Excuse me, young man, has it ever happened to you . . . hm . . . well, to ask hopelessly for a loan?” (Chapter -2) ii. But why had he happened to hear just such a discussion and such ideas at the very moment when his own brain was just conceiving . .. the very same ideas? And why, just at the moment when he had brought away the embryo of his idea from the old woman had he happened upon a conversation about her? (Chapter -6) Both examples show the use of rhetorical questions that mostly Rodion does to question his own ideas and situation.
  • Repetition : The novel has many examples of repetition . A few are given below, i. In the first place, it was evident, far too evident, actually, that Peter Petrovich had eagerly used his few days in the capital to buy himself a new set of clothes in which to greet his fiancée—which was in fact an entirely innocent, permissible thing to do. (Part -2, Chapter -5) ii. “Oh, damn . . . these are the items of intelligence. An accident on a staircase, spontaneous combustion of a storekeeper from alcohol, a fire in Peski . . . a fire in the Petersburg quarter . . . another fire in the Petersburg quarter . . . and another fire in the Petersburg quarter . . . Ah, here it is!” (Part -2, Chapter -5) These examples show the use of repetitions such as “evident” and “a fir” in which the writer has emphasized the idea.
  • Setting : The setting of the novel, Crime and Punishment is St. Petersburg and Siberia in Russia.
  • Simile : The following sentences are examples of similes, i. Meanwhile Razumikhin sat down on the sofa beside him, as clumsily as a bear put his left arm round Raskolnikov’s head, although he was able to sit up, and with his right hand gave him a spoonful of soup, blowing on it so it would not burn him. But the soup was only just warm. (Part-2, Chapter-3) ii. The murderer was upstairs, locked in, when Koch and Pestriakov knocked at the door. Koch, like an ass, didn’t stay at the door; so the murderer popped out and ran down, too, because he had no other way of escape. (Part-2, Chapter-4) These use of words “like” and “as” show the comparison between Razumikhin and bear and Koch and an ass.

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Crime and Punishment Introduction

Welcome to the novel whose title sounds like a cross between a game show and an episode of Law & Order: SVU ...but is actually one of the most read, most studied, and most (in)famous works of literature in the world.

No pressure, right?

Actually, the best way to read Crime and Punishment is to not only feel all that pressure but to revel in it. This is a novel all about the vice grip of intense pressures: the pressures of society, of class, of psychology, of morality, of Christianity, and of what it means to be a human in the world.

Easy? Ha. Rewarding? Oh, heck yes...if only because you'll get to say, "Oh, Crime and Punishment ? Yeah, I've read that one."

Fyodor Dostoevsky first published Crime and Punishment in 1866 in 12 monthly installments in a conservative journal, Russian Messenger ( Russkiy Vestnik ). The novel has always been popular, though reactions to it can fall just about anywhere along the spectrum.

Which is yet another reason to devour this book like your little cousin's Halloween candy stash, in our opinion. Ain't no Russian novel like a controversial Russian novel...because you just know that a controversial Russian novel is extra delicious, messed up, and challenging.

It's also extra psychological. Crime and Punishment —like most Dostoevsky joints—is incredibly fluid and open to a wide variety of interpretations. As Simon Karlinsky suggests in his essay "Dostoevsky as Rorschach Test," (cool essay title or coolest essay title?) how we interpret Crime and Punishment might be a reflection of our own psychology. ( Source )

It's kind of like a BuzzFeed quiz...but instead of telling you what Disney villain you are, it lets you know where you fall on the spectrum of "axe murderer" to "saint."

But don't worry : Crime and Punishment 's hero/antihero—Raskolnikov—is both a little bit saint and a lot bit axe murderer. This novel chronicles his journey from depressed ex-student to depressed would-be do-gooder to depressed killer of older women to (slightly less) depressed man in love.

Does that sound boring? Thought not. But in case you need convincing, you also get a tour of the seedy underbelly of St. Petersburg: we're talking drunks, prostitutes, and scuzzbags of all stripes. It sounds like a VICE documentary. But, in reality, it's even better because with Dostoevsky writing this thing, the scummiest of characters is a little bit angelic, and the most angelic of characters is a little bit scummy.

In short: the characterization in this novel is flat-out genius.

After all, it's written by Dostoevsky: a brilliant fiction writer, journalist, and publisher. He also had a gambling problem, suffered from epilepsy, and had constant financial issues. Like the hero of our novel, he spent time in prison in Siberia. He wasn't imprisoned for murder, though, but for being a member of a progressive literary group called the Petrashevsky Circle. ( Source )

Yeah. Dostoevsky was imprisoned, in part, for being a literary dude who thought outside the box. And Crime and Punishment is proof positive that that accusation is 100 percent true: you don't get more intense, psychologically rich, and structurally innovative than good ol' C & P.

What is Crime and Punishment About and Why Should I Care?

We're going to say something that sounds, on its surface, incredibly cheeseball:

You should care about Crime and Punishment because you're a human individual.

Yuck, right? We know: it sounds as if we just called you a special snowflake and assured you that Crime and Punishment will be more beneficial to your special snowflakiness than reading every Chicken Soup for the Soul essay collection ever written.

What we mean to say is this: after getting through Crime and Punishment , you're going to need a few inspirational Chicken Soup essays. You're going to need a few dozen baby sloth YouTube videos. You're going to need that sleeve of Pillsbury cookie dough that's chilling in your fridge.

Because Crime and Punishment is going to make you look deep within your human, individual being. And chances are good that you're not going to 100 percent love what you see.

(How bleakly Russian do we sound right now, by the way?)

To quote The New York Times— you know, the most respected newspaper in America—"The impact that Dostoevsky produces on some readers at time verges on the apocalyptic." ( Source )

Here's why: Dostoevsky is not a writer who's big on the whole subtlety thing. But, he is big on the whole moral gray area thing—his characters inhabit both the worst and best aspects of humanity...usually at the same time. In Crime and Punishment , you meet a cold-blooded killer with a desire to help the unfortunate. You meet a child molester who nevertheless does some pretty good things. You meet a lonely old woman who's also completely hateful. You meet the long-suffering wife of a drunk who forces her daughter into prostitution so the family can eat.

Basically, in C & P , you're forced to confront humans at their worst...and at their best. You're going to vacillate between hating them, feeling for them, liking them, and empathizing with them. Yeah: you're going to empathize with an axe murderer and a woman who beats her kids.

The end result? A long, hard look in the mirror. Because what you feel toward these characters will show you the extent and breadth of human action. It's heavy stuff, no doubt about it. But at the end, we guarantee you'll feel more charitable toward humanity, more wary toward humanity, and more human yourself.

Just make sure you have some of those cute baby sloth videos cued up for when you finish.

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Crime and punishment IELTS model essay with vocabulary

Our band nine sample essays give you the opportunity to learn from successful essays that show off the best structure, vocabulary and grammar. This IELTS essay on crime and punishment explores the advantages and disadvantages of harsh punishment for criminals.

band Nine Sample Essay

In some countries, crimes are punished harshly. what are some advantages and disadvantages of this approach.

Several nations have opted to implement a system of strict penalties, such as long jail sentences and execution, for crimes. In this essay, I will explore the advantage that this is a good deterrent with the disadvantage that this harms rehabilitation .

Punitive measures can help deter future crime. If people can see that crimes will be punished harshly, they are far less likely to want to commit a crime . Because people consider risk versus reward before acting, making crime as risky as possible by increasing punishment can stop criminals. Conversely, when countries have light punishments for crimes like shoplifting , people in those countries might feel like it is worth the risk to do these crimes.

However, these strong punishments also increase recidivism by failing to rehabilitate people. One of the main purposes of sending people to prison is to prevent them from committing crimes when they leave; however, making prisons and other punishments too strict works against this purpose. When criminals have a heavily punitive experience, they lose self-confidence and become distrustful of authority , meaning they are more likely to be involved in crime when they leave prison. Alternatively, if prisoners have access to training and support, such as drug rehabilitation programs and anger management classes, they are far more likely to rejoin society in a productive way. 

In conclusion, the correct punishment for crimes is a complex issue. On the one hand, strong measures deter crime; on the other hand, the same measures make it more likely for prisoners to reoffend .

crime and punishment vocabulary

Although crime and punishment is a common topic in the IELTS exam, there, thankfully, is not too much vocabulary you need to know for it. Let’s take a look at some of the high level vocabulary in this answer to kick start your learning.

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Essay on Crime And Punishment

Students are often asked to write an essay on Crime And Punishment in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Crime And Punishment

Understanding crime.

Crime is an act that breaks the law. It can be small, like stealing candy, or big, like robbing a bank. Some people commit crimes because they are poor, others because they want power or excitement. No matter the reason, crime harms others and disrupts peace in society.

Purpose of Punishment

Punishment is given to people who commit crimes. It serves two main purposes. First, it discourages the person from committing the crime again. Second, it warns others that crime leads to unpleasant consequences.

Types of Punishment

Punishments can be different based on the crime. For small crimes, punishments can be fines or community service. For serious crimes, punishments can be jail time or even the death penalty in some places.

Effectiveness of Punishment

Punishment can stop people from committing crimes, but it’s not always effective. Sometimes, people commit crimes again after being punished. This shows that we need to find better ways to prevent crime, like education and providing opportunities.

Crime and punishment are important topics in our society. While punishment can deter crime, it’s not a perfect solution. We need to work on other ways to prevent crime, ensuring a peaceful and safe society for all.

250 Words Essay on Crime And Punishment

Understanding crime and punishment.

Crime refers to acts that break the law. These are actions that society and law consider wrong. For example, stealing or hurting someone physically. Punishment, on the other hand, is what happens when someone commits a crime. It could be a fine, jail time, or community service.

Why Crimes Happen

People commit crimes for many reasons. Some do it out of need, like stealing food to eat. Others might do it because they think it’s fun or exciting. Sometimes, people commit crimes because they are angry or upset. Understanding these reasons can help us stop crimes before they happen.

Punishments are given based on the crime. Small crimes, like stealing a candy bar, might result in a small fine. Bigger crimes, like hurting someone, could lead to jail time. Some punishments aim to help the person learn from their mistakes, like community service.

Effect of Punishment

The goal of punishment is to stop people from committing crimes. It makes people think twice before doing something wrong. Yet, sometimes, punishment doesn’t work. Some people continue to commit crimes even after being punished. This shows that we need to find better ways to stop crime.

In conclusion, crime and punishment are important aspects of our society. They help keep order and ensure safety. By understanding the reasons behind crime and the effects of punishment, we can work towards a safer and more peaceful society.

500 Words Essay on Crime And Punishment

Crime is an act that goes against the laws set by society. It’s like breaking the rules that everyone has agreed to follow. These rules, or laws, are made to keep peace and order. When someone breaks them, it disrupts this peace and order. Crimes can be different in nature, like stealing, hurting someone, or telling lies about someone else.

What is Punishment?

Punishment is what happens when someone is found guilty of a crime. It’s a way for society to show that breaking the law is not okay. Punishments can also be different based on the crime. For example, if someone steals, they might have to give back what they stole and spend some time in jail. If someone hurts another person, they might have to go to jail for a long time.

The Purpose of Punishment

Punishment serves several important roles. First, it helps to teach the person who committed the crime that what they did was wrong. This is called deterrence. The idea is that if the punishment is tough, people will think twice before committing a crime.

Second, punishment also protects society. When a person who has committed a crime is in jail, they can’t commit more crimes. This is called protection.

Finally, punishment can also help the person who committed the crime to become a better person. This is called rehabilitation. The idea is to help them understand why what they did was wrong and how they can avoid doing it in the future.

The Balance Between Crime and Punishment

It’s important to make sure the punishment fits the crime. This means that the punishment should be just right – not too harsh, not too light. If the punishment is too harsh, it’s not fair to the person who committed the crime. If it’s too light, it might not stop them or others from committing more crimes.

Finding the right balance can be hard. That’s why we have judges and courts. They look at all the details of the crime and the person who committed it. Then they decide what the right punishment should be.

Final Thoughts

Crime and punishment are important parts of our society. They help keep order and teach people the difference between right and wrong. It’s a complex system, but it’s necessary to ensure that we can all live in peace and safety. It’s also a system that is always changing and evolving, as we learn more about what works best to deter crime and rehabilitate those who have committed crimes.

Remember, the goal is not just to punish, but also to prevent future crimes and help those who have committed crimes to become better people. This way, we can all live in a safer and more peaceful society.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Introduction to Crime Essay: Structure and Format

Table of Contents

All writings on crime have the same objective – to find and assist. Any cause-and-effect relationships you uncover can help you understand the problem more.

It can also develop new techniques for preventing, minimizing, or dealing with crimes and criminals and expose numerous other relevant information.

This article features the best way to report your crime essay. Just follow the essay structure guidelines and start writing!

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How to Write a Proper Crime Essay

Writing an essay on crime is nearly identical to writing any other essay. However, you must be specific with the content you provide in your essay.

Endeavour to verify the credibility and accuracy of any Internet sources you use. It is also prudent to rely on data and numbers.

In addition, choosing a narrow topic for your essay is preferable, as this will make it more interesting and newsworthy. If you select a topic that is too wide, you will end yourself writing about everything and nothing. Choosing a restricted topic, however, may be challenging due to the scarcity of available knowledge.

Therefore, study your issue and locate the sweet spot. Let’s get unto how to properly outline a crime esssay.

Outline: Introduction to Crime Essay

Every essay should have three sections: introduction , body, and conclusion.

They may also have paragraphs to facilitate reading comprehension. When you have finally decided on a topic, creating an outline is a good idea. This is where you will emphasize each section of your essay. Here is a free sample of an essay outline.

1. Introduction

This is where you give all the background information needed to understand your ideas. It is the foundation of your research. You could also explain what the words mean, if necessary.

2. Body section

The main body is where you put all of your ideas. Find out if more men or women commit crimes. Try to answer the question “why” or find an answer. 

Race and immigration

Look at which groups of people are more likely to commit crimes. Also, look into how being an immigrant can affect criminal behavior.

List the things that may have happened in a person’s early life that led them to commit crimes later. Trauma, family size and relationships, alcoholism and drug addiction, bullying, and poor school achievement might cause this.

A few studies have looked at how religion might affect criminal behavior. Find out if religion makes crime worse, how, and why. Maybe the effects of different religions are different.

Political ideology

Look into different political ideas and how they influence people to act. Are there any that seem to make people want to break the law? 

Psychological traits

Talk about how a person’s psychological background can affect them. Give some examples of mental illnesses that can make people violent or destructive. Find some numbers to back up your claims. 

Socioeconomic factors

Look at which groups of people are more likely to commit a crime and why. Explain how the economy in the family, the city, and the country may affect criminal behavior. You could even write an essay about poverty and crime.

3. Conclusion

In your conclusion, wrap up everything you’ve said. Remember that you don’t need to say or think anything new here.

4. References

Add a list of the sources you used in your essay (if required).

Argumentative Essay on the Root Causes of Criminal Behavior

Of course, the government and law enforcement agencies work to reduce crime (which is a great goal, by the way).

But it continues to happen.

Most people don’t have a clue as to its origins, and that’s a big concern. Because “just mad” is rarely the answer, we need to raise our understanding of the reasons behind criminal behavior.

Here are a few things to think about if you decide to write such an essay:

1. Certain physical traits

People still think that people with certain physical traits are more likely to commit crimes. It is said that these people have smaller heads, more prominent jaws and ears, and a certain height and weight. 

2. Illnesses of the mind and psychological disorders

Some illnesses make people more likely to be violent. For instance, some people with schizophrenia be psychotic or possess psychotic symptoms.

3. Social status

Those considered outcasts or someone with a hard life are more likely to have a more challenging time succeeding. This is why you have the lower social groups committing crimes against those considered higher in the social strata.

4. Poor Economies

The same is true for the economy. When a country is poor, there is more crime. It was found that people with less education are more likely to commit a crime than people with more education.

5. Unemployment

Also, unemployment is considered one of the most common reasons people break the law. If people cannot find employment, they may commit crimes as an alternative to getting a job.

6. White-collar crime

White-collar crime is common among deputies and high-ranking government officials. They include taking bribes, abusing power, being too busy, and other things.

The criminal justice system is an exciting topic for research papers and analytical essays.

Crime is, unfortunately, ever-present, and there is a wealth of data and statistics from which you may draw answers to your specific issues.

While crime rates are rising in every community, I believe both governments and individuals can improve. On the one hand, governments can take several significant steps to minimize or even eliminate various forms of crime.

To begin, governments can increase the number of police officers in every community to keep an eye on citizens and deter criminal behavior. Secondly, the state can use cutting-edge technologies like surveillance cameras in all public areas to prevent illegal activity.

Strong sanctions like incarceration, physical punishments, or financial fines may reduce crime since they dissuade people of all ages.

Members of the society can also play a significant role in reducing crime rates. The vast majority of people are willing to help the government maintain a secure society, from my experience.

Ordinary people may play a crucial role in crime-prevention efforts simply by reporting issues to the police. When citizens are invested in reducing violent crime in their cities, it provides the government with an opportunity to take preventative measures.

In a nut shell, all members of society, including governments and people, must prevent crime for a community to be safe.

Introduction to Crime Essay: Structure and Format

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Crime & Punishment Essay Titles

IELTS Essay Questions for the Topic of Crime & Punishment. All essay questions below are reported by IELTS candidates and seem to have been repeated over the years. Regardless of the years the questions were reported, you could get any question below in your test. You should, therefore, prepare ideas for all questions given below. This topic is more likely to appear in the Academic test than the GT writing test. However, all candidates should prepare for all topics to be safe.

Crime & Punishment Essay Questions for IELTS Writing Task 2

The crime rate nowadays is decreasing compared to the past due to advance technology which can prevent and solve crime. Do you agree or disagree? (Reported 2017, 2021 Academic Test)
Many criminals commit further crimes as soon as they released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest? (Reported 2015, 2017, 2022 Academic Test)
It is often thought that the increase in juvenile crime can be attributed to violence in the media. Do you agree that this is the main cause of juvenile crime? What solutions can you offer to deal with this situation? (common question)
In some societies, the number of crimes committed by teenagers is growing. Some people think that regardless of age, teenagers who commit major crimes should receive adult punishment. To what extent do you agree? (2020, 2023)
Some countries are struggling with an increase in the rate of crime. Many people think that having more police on the streets is the only way to reduce crime. To what extent do you agree? (2018, 2020)
Some people think that women should not be allowed to work in the police force. Do you agree or disagree?
Many crimes are often related to the consumption of alcohol. Some people think that the best way to reduce the crime rate is to ban alcohol. Do you think this is an effective measure against crime? What other solutions can you suggest?
Some people think certain prisoners should be made to do unpaid community work instead of being put behind bars. To what extent do you agree? (Reported 2017, 2020, GT Test)
Many people believe that having a fixed punishment for all crimes is more efficient. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a fixed punishment? (common question)
Some people think that the government should be responsible for crime prevention, while others believe that it is the responsibility of the individual to protect themselves. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
The death penalty is the best way to control and reduce serious crime. To what extent do you agree? (2018, 2020)
While it is sometimes thought that prison is the best place for criminals, others believe that there are better ways to deal with them. What is your opinion? (common question – this is often reworded with a focus on the best ways to deal with criminals)
Crime rate, in most countries, is often higher in urban areas than in rural areas. Why do you think that is? What can be done to reduce the crime rate?
Some people think that poverty is the reason behind most crimes. Do you agree or disagree?
Internet crime is increasing rapidly as more and more people are using the internet to make financial transactions. What can be done to tackle this problem ?
Some people think that the parents of children who commit crime should also receive a punishment. Do you agree or disagree? (2020)

Reported essay questions are from students who have taken their IELTS test. That means questions may have appeared more frequently than have been reported. These questions may vary slightly in wording and focus from the original question. Also note that these questions could also appear in IELTS speaking part 3 which is another good reason to prepare all topics thoroughly.

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From the Bottom Up: Selected Essays

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15 Punishment

  • Published: May 2016
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“Punishment” concentrates on specific questions about what the law should provide. It explores a number of bases claimed to justify criminal penalties. A notable division exists between the idea that violators simply deserve punishment, a theory of retribution, and various utilitarian notions that punishment can deter criminal actions, isolate those who might again commit crimes and help to reform them, and also assist those who have suffered to feel better. Neither approach works in isolation. People should not be criminally punished unless that will help to accomplish some goal, but even if it would be useful, innocent persons should not be punished; and no one should be punished with a severity out of proportion to any crime he committed. Although some nuances in authorized punishment are questionable, notably strict liability that can carry a serious penalty, most major features of the substantive law are consistent with the underlying justifications.

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Youth Crime and Punishment Essay

Introduction, causes of youth crime, types of crimes committed by youth, the law on youth criminals/punishment, works cited.

Crime can be described as a deviant behavior that violates the prevailing norms or cultural standards prescribing how humans ought to behave normally (Gary 4). Statistics state that the youth crime rate has increased over the years but the big question is how has that happened and why. The current generation youth has been exposed to so many immoral behaviors and they desire to ape what is happening around them. Parents, teachers, media and peer groups are largely to be blamed for these results because they are the ideal tool of control to the youth. In the United States and Canada, youth has resulted to commit crimes in defense of discriminatory acts.

The “rod” what happened to it? Is it part of the blame? Drug related crimes, homicides committed by youth and even property crimes just to mention but a few are crimes that the youth commit. Punishment is seen as one way of tackling and minimizing the crime rates but has it been effective? If the law enforcers have voted it in and made sure it is in action the why is the crime rates among the youth taking its toll in the society (Gary 23).

There are major risk factors that lead the youth to commit crime which include; Parental supervision and discipline which is characterized with harsh and erratic parental discipline, cold or rejecting parental attitudes has led to the children lacking inhibition against offending. Parental conflict and separation also contributes to the youth crimes. Having separated parents or a broken home does not create the high risk of offending rather the parental conflict which led to the separation.

Social and Economic deprivation are important factors contributing to antisocial behavior and crime. Research states that the risk of becoming criminally involved is higher for young people raised in disorganized inner city areas, characterized by physical deterioration and overcrowded households (Donald 473).

Drug related offenses are prevalent; also property crime rates have been evident especially in the schools. Research states that1 in 10 youth crimes occurred on school property, assaults being the most prevalent offenses (27%).Homicides among teenagers have contributed negatively to the society especially among the victims (Gary 46).

The question has been why has the crime rates been so much adverse yet the law on the youth crimes is being enforced? There has been an alarm over youth crimes but few efforts reduce the rate offer partial solutions to the problem. Many crime-control projects have been initiated but there is little appreciable effect. Some of the experts believe that locking up large numbers of the worst offenders would bring reduction but others question the applicability of such a move (Bureau of Justice Statistics 162). Therefore, we see that punishment on the youth crimes have not had any effect whatsoever. This implicates that the society continues to become rotten because the law has failed to do its part.

Based on the above we need to look for strategies which will be effective and control or even rehabilitate the offenders among the youth. First, the causes should be looked at in depth and thoroughly scrutinized. This is the most basic thing which should be done to come up with effective resolutions. The reason is that we are answering the question ‘why do the youth go out and commit offenses?’ what drives them to offend is what should be dealt with first. Issues of parental conflict, socio-economic issues, and harsh discipline from the parents should be addressed adequately. They should pass a law that makes it mandatory for parent to take parental class so as to bring up their children in a socially acceptable way. Secondly the law enforcers should look at what went wrong to the laws they are following and make quick amendments which will be fair and effective to both the youth and the society.

Bureau of Justice Statistics. Performance Measures for the Criminal Justice System: Discussion from the BJS-Princeton Project. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Justice, 1993. 152-179.

Cressey, Donald R. “Crime: I. Causes of Crime.” vol. 3. New York: Macmillan and Free Press, 1968. 471–476.

LaFree, Gary. Losing Legitimacy: Street Crime and the Decline of Social Institutions in America. Boulder, Colo.: West view, 1998. 3-52.

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IvyPanda. (2021, October 23). Youth Crime and Punishment. https://ivypanda.com/essays/youth-crime-and-punishment/

"Youth Crime and Punishment." IvyPanda , 23 Oct. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/youth-crime-and-punishment/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Youth Crime and Punishment'. 23 October.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Youth Crime and Punishment." October 23, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/youth-crime-and-punishment/.

1. IvyPanda . "Youth Crime and Punishment." October 23, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/youth-crime-and-punishment/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Youth Crime and Punishment." October 23, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/youth-crime-and-punishment/.

  • Homicides Associated With Homosexual Lifestyle
  • Female Offending: Persistent and Late Onset
  • Analysis of Homicides in St. Louis
  • Offending Patterns Between Genders
  • Gun Shows in Relation to Suicides and Homicides
  • Race Factor in Offending & Victimization Rates
  • Juvenile Detention and Desistance from Offending
  • Routine activities theory: A unique theory that attempts to explain both offending and victimization
  • Offending Increase Among the Imprisoned Teenagers
  • Criminal Law and Its Impact on Society and Business
  • Role of Religion in Juvenile Prevention and Correction
  • Can Early Childhood Intervention Prevent Delinquency?
  • “Weeping in the Playtime of Others” by K. Wooden
  • Juvenile Delinquents in Adult Court
  • Crime Policy and Practices: Trying Juveniles as Adults

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. Crime and Punishment: Sample A+ Essay: Is Raskolnikov a Hero

    Though Raskolnikov spends most of the novel in a decidedly non-heroic state, his keen, searching conscience allows him to attain grace in the closing epilogue and he ends the novel a hero. To be sure, Raskolnikov engages in numerous unheroic thoughts and deeds. Toward the beginning of the novel, he attacks and kills the moneylender Alyona Ivanovna.

  2. Crime and Punishment, Essay Example

    Crime is a violent act with an aim of hurting other individual. The aim of a crime is to destabilize the peace and tranquillity of the society. There are various aspects that make up a crime. They include: The nature of the crime. The motive of the crime. Whether the culprit was caught or not. The punishment. The reason of the punishment.

  3. Crime and Punishment

    Introduction to Crime and Punishment. Crime and Punishment was written by Fyodor Dostoevsky.It is the tour de force that presents the post-reform Russia through the character of Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov. The novel first started appearing in series in The Russian Messenger, a literary journal, during the year 1866 and impacted many readers. Later, when the single-volume hit the shelves, it ...

  4. Crime and Punishment

    Crime and Punishment, novel by Russian writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky, first published in 1866.His first masterpiece, the novel is a psychological analysis of the poor former student Raskolnikov, whose theory that he is an extraordinary person able to take on the spiritual responsibility of using evil means to achieve humanitarian ends leads him to murder.

  5. Introduction to Crime and Punishment

    The "controller" is the person that administers the act, the "controlled" is the person being punished, the one who committed the crime, and the "onlookers" which is the general public. Durkheim saw punishment as a moral education. Punishment is an essential part of moral order in society and it helps limit the spread of deviance ...

  6. Crime and Punishment: Study Guide

    Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky, published in 1866, is a psychological novel that delves into the complexities of morality, guilt, and redemption.The story is set in St. Petersburg, Russia, and follows the life of Rodion Raskolnikov, a destitute and intellectually gifted student who formulates a theory that some individuals are morally justified in committing crimes for the greater ...

  7. Crime and Punishment Summary

    Essays and Criticism ... Introduction: Crime and Punishment is a novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky, a Russian author, and was first published in 1866. The novel is situated in St. Petersburg, a city that ...

  8. Crime and Punishment Introduction

    But don't worry: Crime and Punishment 's hero/antihero—Raskolnikov—is both a little bit saint and a lot bit axe murderer. This novel chronicles his journey from depressed ex-student to depressed would-be do-gooder to depressed killer of older women to (slightly less) depressed man in love.

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  10. Crime and Punishment Essays and Criticism

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  11. Essay on Crime And Punishment

    The idea is that if the punishment is tough, people will think twice before committing a crime. Second, punishment also protects society. When a person who has committed a crime is in jail, they can't commit more crimes. This is called protection. Finally, punishment can also help the person who committed the crime to become a better person.

  12. Essay on Crime and Punishment: Laws, Justice & Solutions

    This essay delves into crime historical roots and contemporary complexities, exploring punishment and advocating for justice. ... Introduction to Crime and Punishment. The relationship between crime and punishment has shaped human societies throughout history. This analysis explores legal systems, criminal behavior, and the effectiveness of ...

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    Crime and Punishment Essay: One of the most popular works by the author Dostoevsky is the novel Crime, and Punishment covers a major theory about the extra-ordinary man. In this novel, the main role is played by Raskolnikov, who sets extraordinary justifications for his sins that he has committed. Raskolnikov is shown to have both physical […]

  14. PDF Essays on Schools, Crime, and Punishment

    Essays on Schools, Crime, and Punishment ABSTRACT This dissertation consists of three essays on schools, crime, and punishment. The first essay — stemming from collaborative work with Christopher Jencks, Anthony Braga, and David Deming — uses longitudinal school and arrest records to examine

  15. Introduction: Crime and Punishment as a Philosophical Novel

    The essays in this volume do not take on the task of answering these questions. They have their own agendas in relating philosophical (or anti-philosophical) perspectives on Crime and Punishment: they are more concerned with persons and voices that occupy the text, their words, and the issues they confront than with general questions about the relationship between philosophy and literature.

  16. INTRODUCTION

    True, by the nature of punishment, all punishment is for a wrong that, at the time of the punishment, has already been committed (p 5). 10 But one might be punished for a supposed wrong rather than an actual wrong (many punishments are meted out in the mistaken belief that a wrong was committed). And even where there is an actual wrong ...

  17. Punishment and Responsibility: Essays in the Philosophy of Law

    Abstract. This classic collection of essays, first published in 1968, has had an enduring impact on academic and public debates about criminal responsibility and criminal punishment. Forty years on, its arguments are as powerful as ever. H. L. A. Hart offers an alternative to retributive thinking about criminal punishment that nevertheless ...

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  19. Introduction : The Punishment Response (Chapter 1)

    Summary. Punishment is the universal response to crime and deviance in all societies. As such, it takes various forms. Criminal sanctions like imprisonment and death sentences are allocated and dispensed by state authorities. Other formal punishments involve civil lawsuits and administrative decrees to either reconcile or restore relations ...

  20. Crime & Punishment Essay Titles

    Crime & Punishment Essay Questions for IELTS Writing Task 2. The crime rate nowadays is decreasing compared to the past due to advance technology which can prevent and solve crime. Do you agree or disagree? (Reported 2017, 2021 Academic Test) Many criminals commit further crimes as soon as they released from prison.

  21. Frankenstein Essay On Crime And Punishment

    Elleanore Ruth D'Water Mrs. Farmer AP Literature March 13, 2024 In Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky, the authors skillfully navigate the thematic terrain of mortality and immortality, exploring the profound implications of these concepts on human consciousness and morality.

  22. Punishment

    Abstract. "Punishment" concentrates on specific questions about what the law should provide. It explores a number of bases claimed to justify criminal penalties. A notable division exists between the idea that violators simply deserve punishment, a theory of retribution, and various utilitarian notions that punishment can deter criminal ...

  23. How Did Historical Events Influence Crime And Punishment In...

    As societies adapted to the times, the definition of crime and punishment also changed. Historical events influenced crime and punishment in modern Europe, the United States, and colonial Africa because of the Enlightenment, industrialization, and colonization. The emergence of Enlightenment ideas in Europe affected methods of crime and punishment.

  24. Youth Crime and Punishment

    Introduction. Crime can be described as a deviant behavior that violates the prevailing norms or cultural standards prescribing how humans ought to behave normally (Gary 4). Statistics state that the youth crime rate has increased over the years but the big question is how has that happened and why. The current generation youth has been exposed ...

  25. Studocu

    301 Moved Permanently. openresty