Alex's Term Paper Part 3

In addition, several other aspects of the novel support Raskolnikov’s failure to “become a Napoleon” and live up to the standards of an extraordinary man. Guilt and penance are exhibited in his character even before the murders are committed. The simple thought of murdering the pawnbroker produces a “feeling of intense repulsion, which had begun to oppress and torture his heart while he was on his way to the old woman… (the feeling) had taken such a definite form that he did not know what to do with himself to escape from his wretchedness” (Dostoyevsky 11). Raskolnikov’s aversion to his future actions does not correspond with the idea of a superhuman. Moreover, he asks himself  “If I am so scared now, what would it be if it somehow came to pass that I were really going to do it?” (Dostoyevsky 11). Thereby indicating that because, Raskolnikov fears the consequences of his actions, he falls into the category of an ordinary man. In contrast, supermen do not burden themselves by fearing the repercussions of their behavior.

Additionally, when Raskolnikov finally follows through with his plan and murders the pawnbroker, he is plagued by guilt causing his psychological condition to deteriorate rapidly. Immediately after the murder, Raskolnikov falls ill. Both his physical and mental health are on a rapid decline due to his guilt over the murders. Raskolnikov’s judgment is even more irrational than before resulting in foolish and inane acts, such as volunteering information to the police and claiming that he knows who the true murderer is, forgetting to pick up his pawned items, failing to keep his composure at the slight mention of the murders, and writing “On Crime,” which definitely draws attention to Raskolnikov’s involvement with the murders. The fact that Raskolnikov cannot handle the liability and guilt that has resulted from his actions causes Raskolnikov to contemplate the idea of confession. This further indicates that Raskolnikov completely contradicts that of an extraordinary man. Likewise, Raskolnikov contends that an extraordinary man must be self-reliant, depend on no one, and be able to survive when cut off from society (Dostoyevsky 276). At first, Raskolnikov’s pride separates him from society. After the murders, however, Raskolnikov’s isolation takes a turn for the worse. Immediately following the murders, Raskolnikov becomes tormented with uncertainty, responsibility, and doubt. His beliefs and actions make it impossible to relate to others and as a result, Raskolnikov sets himself apart from the masses. However, Raskolnikov’s alienation contributes to his rash judgment and unlike the depicted Übermensch, Raskolnikov longs for companionship and acceptance. He periodically confides in Sonya, eventually informing her of his wrongful actions because he could no longer bear the burden that resulted from keeping the murders a secret (Dostoyevsky #). Sonya’s acceptance of the truth ultimately serves as a primary motivating factor in Raskolnikov’s confession to the authorities. Her understanding of Raskolnikov’s sins proves that the act of confession will end his dreadful solitude and he will once again become a part of society. Raskolnikov's longing for communion proves that he does not fulfill his own requirements of superiority.