Crime and Punishment
Few novels explore the human soul as deeply as Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment . First published in 1866, this psychological thriller follows the troubled mind of Rodion Raskolnikov, a former law student who believes he is above moral law—until his own conscience proves him wrong. More than a story about crime, it is a story about guilt, redemption, morality, and the fragile nature of the human psyche . Crime → An illegal activity such as murder or robbery . Punishment → A penalty imposed on someone convicted of a crime (e.g., prison, fine). Note : There is an important difference between criminal law and civil law . Criminal law → murder, robbery, etc. (police involved). Civil law → contracts, divorce, etc. (police usually not involved). Common Crimes Crime Definition Abduction / Kidnapping Taking a person to a secret location using force. Armed robbery Using a weapon to steal. Arson Setting fire to a place on...