The Evolution of the Existential Psyche of Raskolnikov through Crime and Punishment

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Recommended: Analysis of Raskolnikov in Crime and Punishment

The introspective and self-scrutinizing nature of Raskolnikov from Crime and Punishment, allows for us to delve into the existential rationales that warrant and influence the decisions and courses of action that he carries out. It is crucial to explore the workings of Raskolnikov’s mind, to understand the motives by which he is compelled by to perform the heinous murder of Alyona the pawnbroker. By examining Raskolnikov’s psyche, characterization, and decision making processes, which are characterized by his constant schisms and dichotomies, we can gain an understanding of how the portrayal of existentialist ideals as represented by Raskolnikov, evolve through the plot of the novel. The changing attitude of Raskolnikov, the environment by which he is surrounded by, as well as the relationships and encounters he has, influence and form the existential tendencies that Raskolnikov personifies. The existential philosophies portrayed by Raskolnikov range from embodying Nietzsche's Übermensch to Kierkegaard’s Christian existentialist theories.
To further address and progress the points of emphasis in understanding the evolution of Raskolnikov’s existential psyche, it is crucial that the definitions of existentialism, Nietzsche's Übermensch, Nihilism, and Christian existentialism (as prescribed by Kierkegaard) are established. Existentialism will be defined with respect to the idea that “existence precedes essence” for consistency’s sake. According to existentialism, there are no established, innate set of truths, meaning there is no established innate sense of morality. Life is, therefore, inherently meaningless in comparison of the vast expanse of the universe that surrounds us (Holmes 146). The discussion of existentialism brings on...

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...hat surround him. The schismatic nature of his mind follows him throughout the novel, giving a glimpse of his faltering, indecisive mind which only changes after Sonya humanizes Raskolnikov through her religiosity. In this way, Dostoevsky overtly communicates his belief that Russian ideals, as represented by Christian existentialism, supersede Western ideals, as represented by the nihilist overtones within Crime and Punishment.

Works Cited

Dostoevsky, Fyodor. Crime and Punishment. Trans. Constance Garnett.
New York: Barnes and Noble Classics, 2007. Print.
Holmes, Clellon John. Existentialism and the Novel: Notes and Questions. Chicago Review, Vol.

McDonald, William. "Søren Kierkegaard." Stanford University. Stanford University, 03 Dec.

Pratt, Alan. "Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy." Nihilism . Embry-Riddle University, n.d.

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