Madie's Response to Alex & Gabe's Reactions.

I agree with both Gabe and Alex's reactions. We all are basically retrieving the same thoughts from the book. I think Gabe brought up a good point that I forgot about. The painter who was next door to Alyona Ivanova's apartment just after the murder was found with her earrings. I agree with Gabe that this could definitely be a key point. If the painter is convicted and found guilty, Raskonlikov will be off the hook, but I don't think his conscious will be. I think that no matter what happens, even if he is not found guilty in court, he will never be the same after this murder. His guilt will be too much for him. I also agree with Alex's point that Raskonlikov is clearly losing it. He becomes despondent towards much else but the murder, let alone he almost confesses to a police officer he has information regarding the murder. He is definitely not of sound mind, and it is decreasing rapidly. I think he will try to cover it up somehow but he is verging closer and closer towards a confession, either by mistake or not.

-Madie

Gabe's response to Alex and Madie's part 2 ch 4-6

I believe that both Madie and Alex brought up interesting and valid points of view towards the events that occurred in these three chapters. Madie states how she felt that Raskolnikov was uncomfortable with the whole discussion of the murders with his friends. She also brings up how he was overwhelmed with guilt, which is why he almost confesses to the cop about the murders. However, he realizes that he needs to do what he has to do to stay free and covers it up once the cop begins to get suspicious. I agree with Madie when she says that Raskolnikov is unable to escape the guilt that arose from the murders and is becoming increasingly paranoid, which is shown by his distress when talking to the painters. Initially, Madie thought that the murders would be free of legal consequences but would only consume him psychologically. However, as the details and events of the story progressed, she changed her mind and agreed with us that he will in fact be punished legally for his crime. It is still early in the story and he has come very close to confessing and turning himself in. I agree with Alex that it was an interesting plot twist to have an innocent suspect being blamed for Raskolnikov's murders. This will contribute to his downfall, especially if the painter is found guilty. It is evident from Raskolnikov's friend's reactions that the story is beginning to unfold, and the other characters are becoming curious and suspicious at his defensive and irritable tone when the murders are discussed.

-Gabriel Magalhaes

Gabriel's reaction part 2 chapter's 4-6

I found the next three chapters of this book to be enjoyable. Razumikhin throws a party that several of his friends go to and discuss the murder of Alyona and her sister. Suspense was added to the story when a painter who happened to be in possession of Alyona's earrings became a suspect.  I think it is going to be interesting to see how his name will be cleared. Razumikhin's compassionate personality is shown by his determination to clear the painter's name, certain that it could not have been him. If the painter is blamed, it will clear Raskolnikov's name, but also add one more death caused by him. This can only further punish Raskolnikov and cause his downfall. A new character called Luzhin has been introduced and is disliked by both Raskolnikov and Razumikhin. Including Luzhin in this chapter seems somewhat unnecessary as he does not present a definite purpose to the advancement of the story. That being said, I believe that some point later on he will pose some relevance to the story. Raskolnikov becomes defensive when Luzhin attempts to provide input into the discussion of the murders. I think that this is not only because of Luzhin's arrogant attitude, but also because Raskolnikov's guilt is increasingly building up and needs to project his hatred for himself onto others. Raskolnikov's overwhelming guilt is further presented when he nearly confesses to a cop that he committed the murders. He is clearly conflicted between wanting to come clean, but also wanting to not be punished.

-Gabriel Magalhaes

Quote

"…but to act sensibly, intelligence is not enough." -Fyodor Dostoevsky

Alex Balogh

Alex's Response to Madie's Reaction

Madie and I have similar thoughts concerning Raskolnikov. We both agree that it is quite evident that discussing the murders causes Raskolnikov much discomfort and anxiety. Moreover, Madie and I also agree that the murders of Alyona and Lizaveta Ivanova have clearly resulted in both feelings of dismay and overwhelming guilt for Raskolnikov. I like how Madie pointed out that although he covered it up deceptively, Raskolnikov most likely told the police about the murders because he is unable to let go of what he has done. As a result, he cannot escape the stressful and guilty feelings weighing on his conscience. Lastly, Madie and I both get the idea that someone will eventually find out who committed the murders. Not only are several characters growing more suspicious of Raskolnikov, but he is also getting sloppy in his attempts to hide his gruesome actions. I feel like Raskolnikov’s subconscious wants someone to find out that he is the real killer of the Ivanova sisters and therefore, Raskolnikov is unknowingly becoming more careless. I can easily say that I am completely fascinated with Raskolnikov’s character. My interest in the plot intensifies with each chapter, as I continue reading about this deranged and troubled character. On multiple occasions, I have found myself hypothesizing what the outcome of the narrative will be. Will he confess? Will he die due to his overwhelming amount of guilt? The vast amount of suspense that Dostoyevsky has imposed in his literature propels me to keep reading and I am looking forward to seeing how the story will unravel. 

-Alex

Alex's Reaction

            In Part II, chapter 4 of Crime and Punishment, we learn that Razumikhin has been trying to clear the name of a painter who been charged for the murders of Alyona and Lizaveta Ivanova. Coincidentally, the man was working in an empty apartment next to the pawnbrokers and was in possession of jewelry that had been pawned to the old woman. I thought that the idea of blaming someone else for Raskolnikov’s actions added an interesting twist to the story’s plot for a couple of reasons. First, Raskolnikov is a dishonest man who does not take responsibility for his actions without having a justified excuse. I think that punishing someone else for his heinous crimes will make Raskolnikov believe that he can get away with more wrongdoings. However, I also think that holding someone else responsible for the murders will greatly increase Raskolnikov’s sense of guilt, further leading to the collapse of his character. On another note, I feel like the story is really starting to unfold and I like where it is headed. I think that some of the other characters are starting to suspect a connection between Raskolnikov and the murders. Razumikhin seems to be growing especially suspicious of Raskolnikov, stating, “he takes no interest in anything, he does not respond to anything except one point on which he seems excited--that's the murder." In addition, it appears that Raskolnikov is losing what little sanity he had left. In a conversation with an inspector leading the murder investigation, Raskolnikov jokes that he knows an abundance of information regarding the murders. Although Raskolnikov is clearly a conflicted character with an internal struggle between right and wrong, I was still dumbfounded by this conversation. Seriously, what kind of murderer does this!? He practically confessed to the police, while simultaneously trying not get caught. It makes no sense. Clearly, his mental health is on a rapid decline.

-Alex 

Madie's Reaction P2 Ch.4-6

I thought that these three chapters were very interesting. Not only does Raskolnikov become more paranoid, but now a new character is introduced; Luzhin. During Razumikhin’s house warming party is when he first arrives, and they talk about the murder of Alyona Ivanova. Raskolnikov acts rudely towards him and Luzhin comes off as very pompous and arrogant. But you can feel Raskolnikov's discomfort while they discuss the murder. I could sense Raskolnikov getting anxious when he finally decides to leave. He goes to a cafe where he meets a police officer. Raskolnikov is obviously overwhelmed in guilt and dismay because he almost tells the police things about the murder, however he covers it up deceptively. He is unable to let go of the murder. He cannot escape the stress and guilt and paranoia that comes with it. This can be seem when he returns to Alyona Ivanova's house. Some painters are covering up the blood, and Raskolnikov walks into the apartment, questioning them. His distress is quite obvious and his paranoia is increasing. I think that someone will find out about the murder. He came so close to revealing it to the police officer... 

- Madie

Response

I agree with Madie in that these chapters are very telling of Raskolnikov’s character. Both she and Gabe share a similar opinion that the extreme amount of guilt that Raskolnikov feels serves as the cause of his mental instability and paranoia. I agree with their opinions, considering Raskolnikov is becoming quite crazy and frantic, and I personally do not believe that he will be able to handle his emotional suffering for much longer. I agree with Madie’s opinion that Raskolnikov is not a strong enough character to keep up the façade that he is innocent. We both agree that he will probably do something drastic due to his newfound incoherent personality and mental breakdown.  Although Madie and I have various similar opinions on both Part II and what will happen next in Crime and Punishment, I disagree with her idea that Raskolnikov will not get caught and have a trial, go to jail, or be punished. While we both agree that Raskolnikov’s true punishment is his internal suffering, I agree with Gabriel’s thoughts that Raskolnikov will eventually confess for the murders and he will get in trouble with the authorities. Moreover, Madie brought up an interesting point in her analysis of Raskolnikov’s visit to Razumikhin. Although I did not think of it this way at first, after reading Madie’s analysis, I agree with her belief that Raskolnikov was initially looking for someone to confide in, but soon realizes that he cannot confide in anyone without confessing what he did. This explains why Raskolnikov was so angry at Razumhikin, when all Razumhikin wanted to do was help Raskolnikov. Gabe also brought up the interesting fact that Fyodor Dostoyevsky uses dreams to symbolize the truths about Raskolnikov’s subconscious. I am excited to continue reading this thrilling novel and to see which group member has the correct opinion on whether or not Raskolnikov will get in trouble with the law.

-Alex

Madie's Response

I agree with both Gabe's and Alex's point of view on these chapters. I think that we all agree that his paranoia is increasing and his guilt is taking its toll on his soundness of mind. I felt the same way as Alex when he tried to dispose of the items. I was surprised because I thought that that was the primary reason for the murder in the first place. I agree with Gabe that it was in part his hatred for the old woman, however I think it was not only that that drove him to kill her. He wanted the goods as well. Here, Gabe stated that he thought Raskolnikov's attitude foreshadowed his guilt and I agree with it. However I"m not sure if it is his moral guilt that he is sad and remorseful of his actions but more that he is scared of what could happen were he to be caught. I can't tell yet, if his worry and paranoia are caused by the guilt or the fear... I think a bit of both. I am curious to see what happens. 

- Madie

Gabe's response Part 2 Ch. 1-3

Both Madie and Alex bring up interesting points in their analysis of the opening chapters of part two. I agree that Raskolnikov demonstrates paranoia over the crime he has committed. Not only does he not want to be caught, he feels overwhelmed with guilt at the fact that he could follow through with such a monstrous crime. Alex states that she was surprised when he disposed of the evidence, such as the pawned items in order to conceal his crime because she believes that this was the motive for his action in the first place, meaning that these murders were committed for no reason. Although I see her point of view, I disagree. I believe that acquiring these items was not the only reason for these murders, but the fact that his mental instability caused his passionate hatred for Alyona to drive him to kill her. Therefore, I can see why he would hide the items as they are representations of his crime and further add to the guilt that is already too much to handle. Moreover, she states that she is intrigued by his remorse, since most criminals do not regret their actions. However, I believe that Raskolnikov's hesitant attitude towards committing the murders at the beginning of the novel foreshadowed this regret and overwhelming guilt. Madie believes that there will be no jail, no hanging, and no trial. It is very hard to tell this early in the story, but i believe that it is very unlikely that Raskolnikov will not succumb to his emotions and end up confessing or being caught by his obvious guilty actions. I am eager to see how this story will unravel and how he will deal with this pressure.

-Gabriel Magalhaes

Gabe's reaction part 2: chapters 1-3

The opening chapters of part two are interesting and suspenseful. A new internal conflict in Raskolnikov's mind occurs: whether to confess or to stay quiet about his two murders in order to not be punished. Now that the crime has been committed, it is evident that he immediately begins to feel the emotional punishment. All the guilt accumulates inside of him, which causes him to pass out at the police station after the paranoia causes him to believe that he is already considered a suspect. He is paranoid and allows his feelings to control his sanity. For example, Raskolnikov frantically attempts to get rid of all evidence such as the blood on his clothes and the stolen items. Instead of the feelings of relief and accomplishment that he expected to have after the murders, he feels overwhelmed, guilty and fatigued. He considers dumping the objects in a river but he does not want people to find them, and decides he needs to hide his guilt better. Instead, he chooses to burry them under a large stone where no one could find them, meaning no one could find him guilty. Dreams are used throughout this novel in order to represent the truths about his subconscious, such as Raskolnikov's dream with the detective beating the landlady. He is surrounded by friends who are willing to take care of him, particularly his friend Razumikhin. Razumikhin is a kind and caring character that does not allow his poor lifestyle to control his actions like Raskolnikov did. Raskolnikov does not seem to be able to live with his guilty conscience, suggesting that it will ultimately consume him and most likely cause his death.

-Gabriel Magalhaes

Reaction to Part II

As I read through the chapters of Part II of Crime and Punishment, Raskolnikov’s new internal conflicts become increasingly evident. In chapter 1, it is clear that Raskolnikov’s primary concern is being caught. His paranoia over the dilemma continues to grow and it results in strong feelings of anxiety, feebleness, and deliria. In addition, Raskolnikov evades being caught by burying the stolen goods under a large rock. Although Raskolnikov is deeply concerned with being caught for the murders, I was both surprised and angered when he disposed of the pawned items simply because stealing these items from Alyona was his reason to murder her in the first place. In addition to his worries with being caught, Raskolnikov also begins expressing remorse/regret for the murders in Part II. Raskolnikov makes note of the fact that his true punishment for murdering the pawnbroker and her sister, Lizaveta, is the mental and emotional suffering that he will face due to his extreme sense of anxiety and guilt. I am intrigued by the fact that Raskolnikov acknowledges the idea of internal punishment given that the majority of criminals do not feel remorse for their actions. At this point in the novel, Dostoyevsky introduces an additional internal conflict of Raskolnikov’s. Rather than struggling between whether or not he should commit the crime (Raskolnikov’s internal conflict in Part I), Raskolnikov now struggles with his desire to confess and his desire to remain a free man. This internal struggle is obvious when Raskolnikov faints in the police station. Personally, I think Dostoyevsky includes this scene in the narrative in order to display the extreme sense of pressure that Raskolnikov feels and his will to confess. Furthermore, I feel like Raskolnikov’s hallucinations are the result of his desire to forget that the murders even occurred. I am excited to find out how Raskolnikov deals with his guilt as the moral decay of his character progresses. I don’t think it will be too long before someone finds out who should really be held responsible for the murders.  

- Alex

Madie's Reaction to Part 2 - Ch I - III

I thought that these few chapters are very telling. Raskolnikov is obviously becoming quite paranoid and crazy, searching his clothes for blood. He had a very insightful line “Can this be the punishment already beginning? Indeed it is.” Perhaps his inner conflict is all the punishment he will receive. I think though, that something will happen and he will do something drastic. He already became so nervous at the police office about hearing the murder he had the strongest impulse to tell the police about what happened. About what he did. I don't think that he is a strong enough character to keep up the facade that he is innocent. I think he will definitely break at some point. Also, when he visits his friend Razumikhin, I think he wants to get his help with maybe dealing with the murder and the guilt. I think he wants someone to confide in, but Raskolnikov realizes that he cannot confide in anyone, so he leaves promptly, sounding quite mad. I believe that Raskolnikov will go crazy with the guilt of the murder and suppressing that guilt, that that will be his ultimate punishment. There will be no jail, no hanging, no trial. Only his own madness encroaching upon him. Further, when his hallucinations cause him to "forget" the murder he feels upset because he knows he can't afford to forget it. However, he mentions, when he comes to, trying to "pretend [that] he still did not quite know what was going on." I think because he does not want to remember the murder. But at the end, he remembers it and his friend Razumikhin looks very puzzled. Maybe Razumikhin will find out about the murder... 

- Madie

Video blog 1

Gabe's response to Alex's reaction to chapter 7

Alex had an interesting reaction to chapter seven. I think she discussed several important aspects of the story and provided a thorough analysis of Raskolnikov's actions. I understand Alex's  skepticism of Raskolnikov actually following through with the murder. It is hard to believe that after so much debate and uncertainty occurring in his mind that he will finally pull through with it. However, I think all hope was lost the second the psychotic look appeared in his eyes. He is an indecisive and tentative character, which makes the reader wonder what he will ultimately do. Alex raised an interesting point -- Raskolnikov tends to make excuses in order to justify his actions as he does not want to take responsibility. He wants to believe that his actions are for the greater good, when they clearly are not. Alex was very shocked at the fact that Raskolnikov killed Alyona, yet slightly less shocked when he killed Lizaveta. This is where our opinions differ. While i was shocked that Raskolnikov ended up killing Alyona, it was somewhat expected as the story led up and introduced several clues and signs foreshadowing this. There is no doubt that Raskolnikov is not a good person. However, he believes he is as he feels that this murder was justified, so he acted on what he believed was right. On the other hand, there was no possible explanation or reason for Raskolnikov to murder Lizaveta other than him selfishly wanting to not be arrested; killing her would not have a positive impact on society like he believed about killing Alyona. This chapter was extremely suspenseful and intense, and I am interested to see what occurs in part two of this story.

-Gabriel

Response to both Gabe's and Alex's Posts.

I agree with both Gabriel and Alex, that this was a very thrilling chapter of part 1. The plot led up to the crime however none of us expected Raskolnikov to truly commit the crime! I liked how Alex described Raskolnikov's selfish character, how he justifies the murder of the to sisters by the greed of wanting money. Raskolnikov definitely, in that moment, does not seem to think that his actions are unjustified. Further to what Alex said, I agree with her that Raskolnikov does not want to take responsibility for his actions and that is why he goes back and forth between wether he should or should not commit the crime. He is very indecisive towards the subject, and I think that he does not wan to have to be responsible for it. Also, I thought that it was interesting how Gabe described how there is now no good deed that Raskolnikov has done. This is the first novel that I have read where the main character is sort of unlikeable. He provides no amiable or redeeming qualities that I imagine a main character to have. If anything he is very dark, and now after the murder comes off as evil. He does not seem like the kind of character that a reader can relate to or admire. I am intrigued to see how Dostoevsky constructs his character throughout the rest of the novel.

- Madie

Blog Entry #2 (9/9/12)

Part II of Crime and Punishment commences Raskolnikov’s moral decay. I agree with Gabe and Madie’s opinions that Raskolnikov is a mentally unstable character with an internal struggle between right and wrong. Now that the murders of Alyona Ivanova and her sister, Lizaveta, have finally been committed, Fyodor Dostoyevsky begins to portray the stages of Raskolnikov’s mental breakdown due to his profound sense of guilt over the murders. Still paralyzed with agitation and dismay over the previous night’s events, Raskolnikov could not find himself falling asleep with ease. After awakening from a night of restless sleep, Raskolnikov instantaneously checked his clothes and apartment for traces of blood or any clues that could possibly link him to the murder scene. A frantic Raskolnikov is then informed that he has been summoned to the police station; however, Raskolnikov is relieved to discover that he was only called to the station because his landlady reported him for not paying rent. As Raskolnikov overhears a detective discuss the murder of the Ivanova sisters, his disposition transitions and once again, Raskolnikov grows anxious over his heightened sense of guilt. Raskolnikov states “that it was no longer possible for him to address these people in the police station, not only with heartfelt effusions, as he had just done, but in any way at all” (Raskolnikov 84). This quote is crucial to the overall theme of Crime and Punishment because it illuminates the protagonist’s hasty realization that the murders have caused him to completely isolate himself from society. This serves as the first stage of Raskolnikov’s internal punishment and suffering. Dostoyevsky does a great job of illustrating how guilt and anxiety are leading to the collapse of Raskolnikov’s character. I agree with Gabe’s opinion that Raskolnikov will eventually pay the consequences of his brutal actions. I look forward to continuing this intriguing novel and discovering how Raskolnikov overcomes his internal suffering, which serves as his true punishment.

-Alex