Psychology

Raskolnikov has analyzed others' behaviors, calling Razumihin a fool for "abusing the socialists" (255-257--Black, 274-276--Gold) and continuing in a rant revealing his thoughts. Analyze the logic from here that has eventually led Raskolnikov to say, "Mother, sister--how I loved them! Why do I hate them now? (Garnett's 1981 translation 256-257--Black edition, Garnett's 1981 translation 275-276--Gold edition).

Analysis

Analyze Raskolnikov's philosophy presented on pages 242-243 (Black copy) and on pages 260-261 (Gold copy) in the Constance Garnett translation of Crime and Punishment (1981).

Philosophy

Discuss the irony evident in the presentation of the "socialist doctrine" described on pages 238 and 239 (Black copy) and pages 256-257 (Gold copy) in the Constance Garnett translation of Crime and Punishment (1981).

Details in Characterization

Dostoyevsky reveals the helpful doctor Zosimov as susceptible to interests that color his character in a much more human, much less clinical, way. What happens that reveals Zosimov to be a ladies' man?

Cause and Effect

What effects became the causes of other effects that became the causes of other effects in Part III? In other words, discuss cause and effect in Part III.

Comparison

List some of the personal qualities valued in Russia in 1866, and defend whether or not the same personal qualities are valued in the United States of America today.

Characterization

Dostoyevsky reveals the heretofore rational and reasonable Razumihin as less than fully rational on many levels. Consider Razumihin's behavior, reaction to Dounya, his interactions with the landlady, etc . . . and discuss how these increase the complexity of his character.