4 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a true psychological tale of a man who has committed a crime and the varied ways in which he is "punished." Raskolnikov is the main character. Many times when reading this story I wonder whether he was crazy, really intelligent, or just plain egomaniacal. The story delves far into his mind leading up to, during, and after his dreaded crime. The setting is mid to late 1800s in Petersburg, Russia. I think some of the wording is odd, but this may be because of the age of the story or the translation. A very enjoyable book if you like classic literature and psychological mysteries.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
It's been years since I read (and loved) this classic!
An impoverished student in St.Petersburg plans the perfect murder. The novel becomes a psychological study, a murder mystery, and a philosophical/ social commentary - along with a great story!
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is easily one of my top three favorite literature novels. Obviously, I recommend that you try it - but be forewarned, it is very difficult to read. All Russian novels are, mainly because the language is so different from English - but mostly because of the character names. In Russian, one can have up to 3,4, or even 5 variations on a name which makes it difficult to keep track of characters (plus, a lot of names look very similar which is tricky as well). However, conquering this only gives you sense of satisfaction upon completion. The most pivotal moments of the novel, when the main character heads off to the old woman's apartment and the scenes that follow, are maybe the best words I have ever read. I was at the edge of my seat with eyes wide with a mixture of shock and horror. READ IT!!