Crime and Punishment

Crime and Punishment is a book by Fyodor Dostoevsky, first published in 1866. Written during a period of intense personal hardship for the author, it quickly became one of the defining works of nineteenth-century Russian literature. Its influence can be seen across modern fiction, philosophy, and psychology, particularly in its exploration of morality, conscience, and the consequences of radical ideas. Today, it remains a cornerstone classic often sought by readers interested in psychological fiction, philosophical novels, and timeless literary masterpieces.

At the centre of the story is Rodion Raskolnikov, a brilliant but destitute former student in St. Petersburg who becomes entangled in a moral and psychological crisis. His internal struggle forms the backbone of the narrative, which moves through crowded tenements, bustling streets, and oppressive summer heat while reflecting the social tensions of the era.

Supporting characters such as the compassionate Sonia Marmeladova, the determined investigator Porfiry Petrovich, and the troubled Marmeladov family help frame the novel’s rich emotional and thematic landscape. With its mix of psychological drama, social commentary, and slow-building suspense, it remains one of the most enduring works for anyone searching for classic literature, psychological fiction, or influential Russian novels. This translation by Constance Garnett was first published in 1914.