Book Review: Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

‘Crime and Punishment’ by Fyodor Dostoevsky is certainly one of the most peculiar novels revolving around a most baffling character.When you go through the initial 70 to 80 pages of the novel you will observe that there is no mystery at all.The entire plot seems to be basically about who, what, when and where.However, as the story moves on, we can easily begin to understand how much thought and research the author actually put in order to depict the psychology of the killer.It is basically a character which works with his own philosophic ideas and believes that whatever had been done is right even if it is above the law.

The greatest strength that you can observe with mystery novels is its depth and complexity.There are an immense numbers of characters and most of them carry a complex mindset.It is truly a good work of fiction which can help us to appreicate different layers of human behavior and portrays how individuals carry two-sided natures within themselves, both that of ‘saint’ and ‘devil.’

A major reason this novel is considered a classic is that it carries a universal approach.Although the author of the book has written it in the Russian context, the concept of the book isn’t merely confined to Russia or even the nineteenth century itself, the period in which the novel is set in.It directly deals with human nature of which little has changed in the last 150 years.

After having a second look through the book, it has been observed that Fyodor Dostoevsky delved and focused on the diverse aspects of family relationships.The book is a little bit dim with regard to its treatment of religious elements.In order to better understand the various layers and the complexities of the story, it might be necessary to read it more than once.

Conclusion

Crime and Punishment is certainly a remarkable work of literature from a renowned writer.You can understand the significance of it from the fact that 25 novel adapted films had already been made based on this novel across the world.It is certainly a great work of art and undoubtedly a classic.

2011 Moira G Gallaga©