Sunday, September 2, 2012

Gabe: Ch 4-6

While on a walk, Raskolnikov ponders on the dilemma of his sister's marriage. He comes to the conclusion that he will not allow the marriage to occur. This shows how protective he is of his family as he does not want them to sacrifice anything for his sake. Although it may be argued that he is doing this out of pride, I believe his overall intentions are selfless and his primary motivation is that he wants the best for his sister and family. Raskolnikov's criminal intentions reappear as he decides to not meet with his friend until after he commits his crime, which he appears to be more willing to follow through with it. However, after awakening from a powerful dream involving an old mare being brutally killed, he once again decides against his crime. This dream foreshadows Raskolnikov's intentions on killing Alyona, while also showing the regret and trauma he may face if the crime is committed. It is evident that Raskolnikov struggles with this stressful internal conflict between right and wrong. While one part of him believes he should commit this crime due to his intense hatred of her, the other presents his moral beliefs and his repulsion to such an evil act. The author creates suspense by delaying the description of the actual crime until chapter six, where it is revealed that Raskolnikov wants to kill Alyona Ivanovna. The author also uses coincidental incidents, such as Raskolnikov overhearing someone talking hatefully about Alyona, to further influence his final decision. Drama and tension are greatly heightened as all signs point to him committing the murder. 

-Gabriel

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