Crime and Punishment · Chapter
II explained
Raskolnikov and Razumihin hurry to the meeting with Luzhin at Bakaleyev's.
What happens
Raskolnikov and Razumihin hurry to the meeting with Luzhin at Bakaleyev's. Raskolnikov reveals his fear of Svidrigaïlov, who has arrived in Petersburg, and expresses a desire to protect Dunya. The tense family meeting with Luzhin begins, marked by awkward silence and Luzhin's offended dignity. The conversation turns to Svidrigaïlov's arrival and Marfa Petrovna's death, escalating tensions until Luzhin, insulted, is forcefully ejected by Raskolnikov after making disparaging remarks about Dunya's reputation.
Themes in this chapter
Psychological Torment
Raskolnikov's mental state is frayed, questioning his own sanity ('I thought just now that perhaps I really am mad, and have only seen a phantom') and consumed by fear and paranoia regarding Svidrigaïlov.
Alienation and Isolation
Despite being surrounded by family and friends, Raskolnikov is mentally distant, showing little interest in Razumihin's story and remaining obstinately mute during the tense social gathering.
Characters to notice
- Raskolnikov
Deeply agitated and paranoid about Svidrigaïlov; questions if his sighting was an hallucination; remains mostly silent during the meeting but erupts to defend his sister's honor, ordering Luzhin out.
- Razumihin
Acts as loyal friend and protector; recounts his failed, angry visit to Porfiry; attempts to defend the family during the meeting and is ready to physically confront Luzhin.
Key passages
““I trust you had a favourable journey,” he inquired officially of Pulcheria Alexandrovna.”
Luzhin begins the conversation with a stiff, formal pleasantry.
Highlights Luzhin's artificial politeness and the strained, impersonal atmosphere of the meeting.
““Your mamma seems to have entirely forgotten that I made up my mind to take you, so to speak, after the gossip of the town had spread all over the district in regard to your reputation.””
Luzhin claims he was magnanimously willing to marry Dunya despite damage to her reputation, implying she should be grateful.
Reveals Luzhin's transactional view of marriage, his arrogance, and his attempt to morally blackmail Dunya and her family.
““Kindly leave the room!” he said quietly and distinctly”
Raskolnikov calmly but forcefully commands Luzhin to leave.
Marks a decisive moment where Raskolnikov takes action to protect his family, cutting through the social tension with direct authority.