AP Lit Crime and Punishment key terms

Raskolnikov's main motivation?

To prove his theory of the 'extraordinary man' and justify murder.

True or False: Dunya supports Raskolnikov's actions.

False. Dunya opposes Raskolnikov's moral justifications and represents traditional values.

What drives Sonia to support Raskolnikov?

Her deep compassion and belief in redemption through suffering.

Fill in the blank: Svidrigailov represents __________.

Moral ambiguity and the consequences of unchecked desires.

Nastasya's role in Raskolnikov's life?

She serves as a caretaker and represents the consequences of poverty.

Raskolnikov vs. Porfiry: What do they symbolize?

Raskolnikov represents intellectualism; Porfiry embodies law and morality.

What is Razumihin's primary motivation?

To help Raskolnikov and demonstrate loyalty and friendship.

True or False: Luzhin seeks to help others.

False. Luzhin is selfish and aims to control Dunya for his benefit.

How does Raskolnikov view himself?

As a 'Napoleon' figure, believing he is above the moral law.

Sonia's motivations stem from __________.

Survival, love for Raskolnikov, and desire for redemption.

Compare Svidrigailov and Raskolnikov.

- Both are flawed - Both confront morality - Svidrigailov succumbs to nihilism, Raskolnikov seeks redemption.

What does Dunya sacrifice for her family?

Her own happiness and desires, showcasing selflessness.

True or False: Raskolnikov feels no guilt after murder.

False. He is haunted by guilt, leading to paranoia and mental anguish.

Fill in the blank: Razumihin represents __________.

Hope, loyalty, and the possibility of a normal life.

What does Porfiry use to unsettle Raskolnikov?

Psychological tactics to expose his guilt and moral dilemmas.

Luzhin's motivations are primarily driven by __________.

Control, power, and exploiting others for his gain.

What is the theme of redemption in 'Crime and Punishment'?

Redemption signifies the possibility of moral recovery. Raskolnikov seeks redemption through suffering and ultimately sacrificing himself.

True or False: Suffering is depicted negatively in the novel.

False. Suffering serves as a path to self-discovery and redemption for Raskolnikov.

Fill in the blank: The symbol of the __________ represents Raskolnikov's guilt.

axe - It symbolizes his violent act and the psychological burden that follows.

How does poverty influence the characters in the novel?

Poverty drives characters to desperation, leading to moral dilemmas and crime. Example: Raskolnikov's justification for murder stems from his impoverished state.

What is the significance of the city of St. Petersburg?

St. Petersburg symbolizes chaos and moral ambiguity, reflecting Raskolnikov's mental state and societal issues.

Compare the themes of nihilism and faith.

Nihilism rejects meaning; faith seeks moral truths. Raskolnikov oscillates between these opposing viewpoints throughout the novel.

What role does the motif of dreams play?

Dreams reveal characters' subconscious thoughts and fears. Raskolnikov's dreams highlight his guilt and inner turmoil.

True or False: The notion of the 'extraordinary man' is central to the novel's theme.

True. Raskolnikov believes extraordinary individuals can transcend moral laws, leading to his justification for murder.

How does isolation affect Raskolnikov?

Isolation exacerbates his psychological struggles, intensifying his guilt and detachment from society.

What does the symbol of the cross represent?

The cross symbolizes suffering and the path to redemption. Raskolnikov's acceptance of Christ's burden is pivotal to his transformation.

Cause → Effect: Raskolnikov's philosophical beliefs lead to __________.

murder - His belief in being an extraordinary man justifies his crime.

What is the theme of moral ambiguity in the novel?

Moral ambiguity challenges clear distinctions between good and evil, forcing characters and readers to confront complex ethical dilemmas.

What is nihilism in the context of the novel?

Nihilism is the belief that life is meaningless. Raskolnikov embodies this by questioning moral values.

Define utilitarianism as it relates to Raskolnikov's theory.

Utilitarianism advocates for actions that maximize happiness. Raskolnikov uses it to justify murder for a perceived greater good.

True or False: Raskolnikov believes he is an extraordinary man.

True. He thinks he has the right to transgress moral laws to achieve greatness.

Contrast Raskolnikov's views with Sonya's beliefs.

Raskolnikov's views focus on rationality and justification; Sonya embodies faith and redemption.

Fill in the blank: Raskolnikov’s theory of the __________ suggests some individuals can transcend moral laws.

Extraordinary Man Theory.

How does guilt affect Raskolnikov's actions?

Guilt leads to paranoia and isolation, ultimately forcing him to confront his crimes.

What philosophical dilemma does Raskolnikov face?

He struggles with the morality of his actions versus his desire for power and greatness.

Explain the concept of redemption in the novel.

Redemption is achieved through suffering and acceptance of guilt, primarily through Sonya's influence.

Cause → Effect: Raskolnikov’s isolation leads to __________.

Mental deterioration and a crisis of identity.

What role does suffering play in Dostoevsky's philosophy?

Suffering is a path to spiritual growth and understanding, showcased in Raskolnikov's journey.

True or False: The novel endorses a strict moral absolutism.

False. It explores moral ambiguity and the complexities of human motives.

What is existentialism's influence on Raskolnikov?

Raskolnikov grapples with the absurdity of existence, questioning purpose and morality.

What is the central conflict in 'Crime and Punishment'?

Raskolnikov's internal struggle between morality and his justification for murder.

True or False: The plot follows a linear structure.

False. The narrative utilizes a non-linear structure with flashbacks and psychological depth.

Fill in the blank: The story is set in _____.

St. Petersburg, Russia.

Which event initiates the main plot?

Raskolnikov's murder of the pawnbroker, Alyona Ivanovna.

What narrative perspective is used?

Third-person omniscient, allowing insight into multiple characters' thoughts.

Cause → Effect: Raskolnikov's guilt leads to _____.

Paranoia, illness, and eventual confession.

How does the structure reflect Raskolnikov's psyche?

The disjointed timeline mirrors his mental instability and fluctuating rationality.

What role do dreams play in the narrative?

They symbolize Raskolnikov's guilt and foreshadow his eventual breakdown.

True or False: The ending resolves all plot threads.

False. Many themes and conflicts remain open to interpretation.

Compare Raskolnikov's initial theory with his later beliefs.

Initially, he believes in extraordinary individuals; later, he acknowledges moral responsibility.

What is the significance of the epilogue?

It shows Raskolnikov's path to redemption and the possibility of spiritual rebirth.

Which character serves as a foil to Raskolnikov?

Svidrigailov, representing the darker aspects of human nature and moral decay.