Crime and Punishment · Chapter
Crime and Punishment explained
The novel opens with Raskolnikov, a destitute former student, leaving his squalid garret in a state of intense psychological agitation.
What happens
The novel opens with Raskolnikov, a destitute former student, leaving his squalid garret in a state of intense psychological agitation. He is tormented by a plan to murder the pawnbroker Alena Ivanovna, which he views as a test of his extraordinary nature. After a fitful sleep, he wakes irritable, contemplates visiting his friend Razumihin but rejects the idea, and finally goes to the pawnbroker's apartment on a pretext. There, he meticulously observes the layout and the presence of her half-sister Lizaveta. The chapter establishes his profound alienation, poverty, and the psychological torment driving him toward the crime.
Themes in this chapter
Psychological Torment
Raskolnikov's entire state is one of nervous agitation, feverishness, and internal conflict as he debates and plans the crime.
Poverty and Desperation
His garret, his debts, his inability to pay rent, and his shabby clothes establish the crushing material conditions that form the backdrop of his actions.
Characters to notice
- Raskolnikov
The protagonist, introduced in a state of extreme poverty, psychological distress, and intellectual arrogance as he plans the murder.
- Alena Ivanovna
The old pawnbroker, described as a 'withered, spiteful' woman, whom Raskolnikov visits and plans to kill.
- Lizaveta Ivanovna
The pawnbroker's meek and exploited half-sister, whose presence and schedule Raskolnikov notes during his visit.
Key passages
“He was hopelessly in debt to his landlady, and was afraid of meeting her.”
Raskolnikov is impoverished and avoids his creditor, highlighting his desperation and isolation.
Establishes immediate financial and social pressure.
“The feeling of intense repulsion, which had begun to oppress and torture his heart while he was on his way to the old woman, had by now reached such a pitch...”
His profound disgust and inner conflict about the planned murder are overwhelming him physically and mentally.
Illustrates the psychological torment preceding the act.