The Development of Raskolnikov in Crime & Punishment

February 8, 2026

Introduction to Raskolnikov in Crime & Punishment

Crime & Punishment serves as one of the most psychologically intense and important books ever written. Following the protagonist Raskolnikov through his journey from perceived greater-being to total deterioration. Studying Raskolnikov’s mental state throughout the novel is not only greatly advised for all readers but necessary, and here’s how to do it!

Raskolnikov’s moral deterioration before the crime

At the beginning of Crime & Punishment, Raskolnikov believes that he belongs to a group of extraordinary individuals, comparing himself to the likes of Napoleon. He believes that he transcends law and that law is only applicable to those of lower status, “the ungifted people”. Raskolnikov’s belief that he can transgress the law ultimately leads him to think of others as being nothing more than abstract ideas. These “intellectual findings” of his lead him to devise a plan involving an old pawnbroker, whom he perceives as swine, that if he follows through with his plan, he’ll ultimately only be practising his metaphysical right of being above all law.

Psychological deterioration after the murder

Following the murder, Raskolnikov's mental state begins to take a toll on him. He starts to experience intense psychological torment, being constantly reminded of the fact that his previous thoughts of empowerment mean nothing in the face of true morality. He becomes completely consumed by guilt, paranoia and even physical illness. This further proves that he’s utterly incapable of accepting the ideology that he once felt was true. Dostoyevsky deploys fever, delirium and fragmented thoughts to externalise Raskolnikov's internal state. Once again, emphasising that the crime he committed did not uplift him, but rather allowed his conscience to imprison him entirely.

The beginning of moral development through suffering

Despite his deterioration, Raskolnikov’s suffering becomes the foundation for his moral development. The constant growing of his discomfort is not merely due to the thought of punishment, but rather a deeper recognition of his alienation from others. Through his actions and conversations with Sonya, who embodies love, compassion and humility, he is confronted with an alternative moral framework, a framework based upon the feelings of love rather than a hierarchy based on superiority. Sonya's presence exposes his empty feeling towards his previous superior man theory and replaces it with an ever-growing feeling of needing to confront his guilt head-on. Dostoyevsky presents guilt and self-hatred as a necessary step within Raskolnikov’s redemption, saying that redemption only begins with the acceptance of pain.

Confession as a turning point

Raskolnikov’s confession marks a critical turning point in his journey towards redemption. By admitting his crime, he not only symbolically but also physically rejects his previous beliefs and displays his true sincerity towards change. The act of confession shown by Raskolnikov isn’t meant to be shown as him adhering to law or justice, but rather it represents spiritual reconciliation. Although Raskolnikov doesn’t immediately feel remorse, Dostoyevsky displays the moment as the first step towards genuine transformation. This moment highlights that development is not instant but gradual, requiring humility and the surrender of self-destructive pride.

Development through punishment and moral rebirth

Raskolnikov’s development reaches its early stages of completion during the epilogue. His exile to Siberia forces him towards prolonged suffering, stripping away any doubtful thoughts of his newfound moral compass and totally eradicating all remnants of his old beliefs. Influenced by Sonya’s empathy, Raskolnikov begins to finally experience real compassion and genuine remorse for his actions. Dostoyevsky, however, decides to frame this moment as a rebirth of Raskolnikov’s character rather than a conclusion of the story. This implies that moral rebirth/development is a lifelong struggle and process, not something that’s simply obtained overnight. The novel ultimately says that redemption is possible but only through forgiveness, humility, love and the rejection of ideological pride and all else that stands in the way.