TED-Ed: Alex Gendler: Why should you read "Crime and Punishment"?

Fyodor Dostoyevsky's 'Crime and Punishment' explores the mind of a murderer, Rodion Raskolnikov, a law student in 19th century Saint Petersburg. Driven by poverty, he plans to kill a pawnbroker, but the act's psychological impact is profound. The novel delves into the city's underbelly, introducing complex characters and reflecting Dostoyevsky's own life experiences, including his arrest and time in a Siberian labor camp. The story critiques social and moral philosophies, questioning egoism and utilitarianism, while offering a gripping narrative of crime, punishment, and potential redemption.

How does Dostoyevsky portray the societal conditions of 19th century Saint Petersburg in the novel?

Discuss the significance of Raskolnikov's family in the context of the novel's themes.

What are the main psychological struggles faced by Raskolnikov throughout the novel?

In what ways does Raskolnikov's belief in utilitarianism affect his actions and moral reasoning?

What does Dostoyevsky suggest about the possibility of redemption through Raskolnikov's journey?