Term Paper 1 - Madie

Term Paper

In Crime and Punishment, the main character, Raskolnikov, has many different relationships with the other characters however, none are so unique as that between Raskolnikov and Sonia. Their relationship is so different from that of any other characters because for the first time it seems that Raskolnikov has found somebody who he can find solace through, and Sonia has found someone who does not look down upon her. They place a certain trust in each other and begin to seek each other out in times of need. What makes their connection closer is that although they lead different lives, they ultimately have the same troubles and conflicts. Both Raskolnikov and Sonia want and need to provide for their families. Furthermore, they both struggle with the same internal conflicts of guilt and sin that come from Sonia’s prostitution and Raskolnikov’s murderous act. The two characters find parts of their lives, the tormenting parts, that parallel each others. 

Unlike Raskolnikov’s other relationships with characters in the novel, his connection with Sonia is more intimate and trusting. Throughout the novel, Raskolnikov seeks refuge from his own guilt with her. He finds comfort in her company, and although at first she seems frightened by his late night visits and outbursts, she finds herself strangely enjoying them as well. Sonia, faced with similar feelings of guilt and despair, finds solace in God, by staying religious and praying often. For her, this is a way to cope with her own conflicts of helping her family and herself. In Raskolnikov’s case, it is Sonia who becomes his saviour, as he uses her to find his own solace. This point is further shown when he confesses to her that he was the murderer. He finds comfort in her company, and she offers him relief from his tormenting guilt. This unique relationship is not seen between any other characters in the novel, and is a positive relationship for both of the characters. The two characters are able to use this relationship to overcome their own inner troubles and conflicts. For Sonia, Raskolnikov makes her feel like a bigger person when he stands up for her when she is accused of theft, and also when he says “I did my sister an honor by sitting her next to you.” For the first time, Sonia gains the respect of somebody, and is not judged for her line of work. In Raskolnikov’s case, Sonia offers an outlet to stop himself from going mad. She helps him cope with his guilt of the murders by acting as his saviour and guiding him in the right direction. As the book continues they slowly become closer, finding more things that connect them.