Crime and Punishment

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky was published as a serial story in 1866. Some of the protagonists and antagonists are hard to place completely in either category. The main character is living in poverty and tries to rationalize murder and theft as a way out and a way “up.” Another character runs a corrupt business but does he deserve to die? An old woman hoards money and expensive articles in her apartment. Is she fair game for robbery if her riches are used for a “better” purpose? Moral questions and moral dilemmas mark the peaks and valleys of this book. Choices and consequences are immersed in human emotions to be wrestled with. This book sets a high bar for all other books dealing with similar subject matter.

Wailand Groenendyk
CCEL Staff Writer