Crime and Punishment: The Importance of the Epilogue Crime Punishment Essays

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Crime and Punishment: The Importance of the Epilogue The epilogue of the novel, Crime and Punishment, is a much-criticized and misunderstood aspect of Doestevsky's novel. The truth is that it is vital to understanding of the story, and the central themes. Raskolnikov moves from a state of Russian nihilism and fully emboldened by his theory to one where he finally admits, to himself, that he has committed a crime and has erred not only just in the eyes of the law but also in his own eyes-according to his own moral code. This is seen by his dream. He realizes the full implications of his theory. His journey to redemption has now brought him to the point where he can begin to revive his spiritual well-being. Dostoevsky's objective is now complete also. He has written a story to warn young individuals against the danger of Russian nihilism that he saw pervading his surroundings. The final installment in this work also serves to further exemplify how the love between Raskolnikov and Sonia, with their vastly differing perspectives on life, is the crux and core of the story. It is the focus point, and without this important aspect the story would not have been so successful. Dostoevsky embodies all that he considers good in the character and actions of Sonia. He obviously believes in religion deeply as an excellent and beneficial force for existence. He believes in charity and self-sacrifice, even altruism. Forgiveness and understanding are also prime virtues emblazoned on the character of Sonia. It is these characteristics that D. strives to show can bring redemption to R. Through his recollection of the dream, and the scene of him falling at the feet of Sonia and hugging her, at that point finally beginning to truly love her, we see a changed man. A man for whom their is hope.

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