Chapter 1:
Rodion Romanovich Raskolnikov, a 23-year-old former student living in poverty in St. Petersburg, conceives a plan to murder and rob an elderly pawnbroker, Alyona Ivanovna. He believes that her death will benefit society by removing a parasitic element and that he, as an extraordinary individual, is justified in committing the crime for the greater good.
Example: Raskolnikov rationalizes his plan by drawing parallels to historical figures like Napoleon, who he believes achieved greatness through bloodshed.
Chapter 2:
Raskolnikov visits Alyona Ivanovna's apartment to pawn a watch, gathering information about her daily routine and the location of her money. He encounters her half-sister, Lizaveta, a simple and submissive woman.
Example: The contrast between the wealthy pawnbroker and the poor student highlights the social inequality that fuels Raskolnikov's resentment.
Chapter 3:
Raskolnikov returns to his room in a state of agitation. He faces intense internal struggle, torn between his desire to carry out the plan and his fear of the consequences.
Example: Raskolnikov experiences moments of doubt and guilt, questioning the morality of his actions.
Chapter 4:
Raskolnikov makes a final decision to commit the crime. He procures an axe and a small iron crowbar for his tools.
Example: The tools symbolize Raskolnikov's determination and the violence he intends to inflict.
Chapter 5:
Raskolnikov enters Alyona Ivanovna's apartment and murders her with the axe. He also kills Lizaveta, who unexpectedly enters during the crime.
Example: The murder scene is depicted in gruesome detail, emphasizing the brutality of Raskolnikov's actions.
Chapter 6:
Raskolnikov experiences a moment of triumph but is soon overcome by guilt and paranoia. He hurriedly searches the apartment for valuables and stashes them in his room.
Example: Raskolnikov's emotional turmoil reflects the psychological toll of committing such a heinous act.
Chapter 7:
Raskolnikov meets his friend Razumikhin, who suspects his involvement in the murders. Raskolnikov's behavior becomes increasingly erratic as he tries to hide his guilt.
Example: The tension between Raskolnikov and Razumikhin builds as the former struggles to conceal his secret.
Chapter 8:
Raskolnikov visits Porfiry Petrovich, the police investigator assigned to the case. Porfiry engages in a psychological game with Raskolnikov, gradually narrowing in on his guilt.
Example: Porfiry's keen observations and relentless questioning test Raskolnikov's resolve to maintain his innocence.
Chapter 9:
Raskolnikov's guilt consumes him. He confesses his crime to Sonia Marmeladova, a young prostitute who has suffered great hardships in life.
Example: Sonia's empathy and understanding provide Raskolnikov with a glimmer of hope amid his despair.
Chapter 10:
Raskolnikov is arrested and sentenced to eight years in a Siberian prison. Sonia follows him to Siberia, providing him with love and support.
Example: Sonia's unconditional love serves as a catalyst for Raskolnikov's redemption and eventual acceptance of his punishment.