Kozhinov notes that “the word ‘irresolution’ and the various word formations from the same root come up repeatedly in the novel, especially in the final scenes… ‘insoluble’ “inability to make up one’s mind” ” (17). The word resolution appears on several occasions in the novel and displays Raskolnikov’s inability to come to a decision, especially the decision of whether to confess his crime or not. In fact, Dostoevsky clearly underlies the idea that Raskolnikov is a lost man lacking direction: “A young man came out of his little room…and turned slowly and irresolutely” (Dostoevsky 1).

Without placing trust in God, Raskolnikov will never be able to expiate his evil and find his direction in life. Raskolnikov’s evil exists as his arrogant attitude of trusting only himself causes him to lose direction, wandering aimlessly as he wishes to absolve himself of his sin. Jacques Madaule states that “evil is in man as an unalterable quantity” (41). Therefore, Raskolnikov’s sin is not merely the physical sin of committing murder but also the sin of placing faith in himself rather than God.

His tendency to trust only himself in spite of his crime reveals his self-confident nature he is not willing to listen to the opinions of others nor God. Ironically, Raskolnikov places faith in himself although he is well aware of his own crime. He is not only a sinner because of his crime of murder but also because of his self confidence and self-centredness Raskolnikov retains an inherent and strong belief in himself and places “his trust in himself, not in prayer” (Dostoevsky 88). Through demonstrating vice in Raskolnikov, Dostoevsky reveals the sinful nature of Raskolnikov. Through the Biblical allusions in Crime and Punishment, Dostoevsky illustrates the theme of redemption as Raskolnikov experiences sin and atonement.Īs Raskolnikov commits the crime of murder and lives in sin, Dostoevsky places a secular emphasis on Raskolnikov’s life, divulging the human and sinful nature of those who lack God. By emphasizing the theme of confession and redemption, Dostoevsky effectively portrays the spiritual rebirth that Raskolnikov experiences when he confesses, especially through the story of Lazarus. Although he is in a struggle between good and evil, Raskolnikov cannot simply renounce his sins by his own determination therefore, he must surrender his will and pride and be willing to confess his sin. Throughout the novel, Raskolnikov is lost and suffers from the consequences of his sin. In Crime and Punishment Dostoevsky manifests the evil and goodness of Raskolnikov, depicting the need for him to change-the need for the confession of his sin. Sin is an inextricable force that entangles an individual who has committed a crime only through confession can a man be free of his sin.

Raskolnikov dostoevsky