Crime and Punishment

Crime and Punishment is an intricate psychological study of Raskolnikov, and weighs heavily on point of view. Raskolnikov believes that others around him are insane, while other characters in the novel, such as Razumihin, question Raskolnikov's sanity. Good versus evil also deals with point of view. While one person may believe his actions are "good," another may view them as "evil." Seeing the world through Raskolnikov's eyes, the reader can sympathize with his thoughts and actions. But stepping back, and viewing Raskolnikov through the eyes of an onlooker, he can be seen on the verge of insanity. Likewise, Raskolnikov believed his murder of Alyona, the pawnbroker, was to benefit humanity. To him, it was not an evil act, but one of true goodness to aid all mankind. However, most people see murder as an evil, unforgivable act. Therefore, sanity versus insanity, good versus evil, and all extremes in life are based on perspective.