Everybody knows the main spoiler: Raskolnikov, a former student, murders an old pawnbroker and her sister with an axe. However, this is just the beginning. He must live with the guilt, paranoia, and horror, all while questioning whether he did the right thing.

Raskolnikov is obsessed with a (disgusting) theory that there are two classes of people: the average ones – the Lice – and the extraordinary ones – the Napoleons – who are allowed to commit murder in order to remove obstacles to higher goals.

Of course, he is certain that he belongs to the extraordinary class and has the right to decide who deserves to live. But when he starts losing his sanity after murdering the two women, he realizes he was wrong – not because he regrets the murders, but because he understands that he is “average,” a Louse.

The men in this book are despicable. Luzhin, the fiancé of Raskolnikov’s sister, wants to marry a poor young woman so he can enjoy having power over her. Marmeladov, a drunkard, has squandered his family’s little wealth. Svidrigaïlov, a rich pedophile, ruins lives and justifies his vile behavior. These men are so full of sin and filth that I found myself questioning how Dostoevsky could create such revolting characters. And all of them mirror Raskolnikov, representing his worst qualities.

The women in this book are the opposite. Sonya, Marmeladov’s teenage daughter, has become a prostitute to support her family. Dunya, Raskolnikov’s sister – my favorite character – refuses to compromise her values under any circumstances. Both women are incredibly strong, but in different ways. They also mirror Raskolnikov’s qualities, but the good ones, buried deep within him.

Crime and Punishment, with its powerful metaphors, heavy themes, and incredibly complex characters, is a timeless classic that will haunt you forever. A perfect read for autumn, huh?

Did I murder the old woman? I murdered myself, not her! I crushed myself once and for all, forever.

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