By Sofiia MarushchakSun. 28 Apr. 20243min Read

10 Best Crime and Punishment Quotes

In this blog, we reveal our cherished Crime and Punishment quotes, honoring Fyodor Dostoevsky's profound examination of morality, guilt, and redemption.
10 Best Crime and Punishment Quotes

"Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is an immersive literary masterpiece that delves into the depths of the human psyche and explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of moral transgression. Published in 1866, it follows the tumultuous journey of Rodion Raskolnikov, a destitute and intellectually gifted student living in St. Petersburg.

"Crime and Punishment" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its profound insights into the human condition, its intricate characterizations, and its exploration of timeless philosophical questions. Dostoevsky's novel continues to captivate readers, offering a penetrating examination of the nature of guilt, the pursuit of redemption, and the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome even the darkest of sins.


"It takes something more than intelligence to act intelligently." – Avdotya Romanova

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Avdotya Romanova's observation highlights the complexity of intelligent decision-making. It prompts reflection on the multifaceted nature of wisdom and the importance of emotional intelligence in guiding actions. Romanova's words evoke a sense of the nuanced qualities required for intelligent behavior, urging readers to consider not just intellect, but also empathy and insight in their decision-making processes.


"Taking a new step, uttering a new word, is what people fear most." – Raskolnikov

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Raskolnikov's insight delves into the fear of change and the unknown. It prompts reflection on the hesitancy often felt when embarking on unfamiliar paths. Raskolnikov's words evoke a sense of apprehension and the inherent challenges in embracing new beginnings, urging readers to confront their fears and take courageous steps forward despite uncertainties.


"When reason fails, the devil helps!" – Avdotya Romanova

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Avdotya Romanova's remark delves into the resort to cunning when reason falls short. It prompts reflection on the complexities of human behavior and the inclination to employ alternative means when faced with challenges.


"I did not bow down to you, I bowed down to all the suffering of humanity." – Raskolnikov

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Raskolnikov's assertion delves into the symbolism of his actions, transcending personal submission to represent solidarity with human suffering. It prompts reflection on the deeper significance of individual gestures in the broader context of societal empathy and compassion.


"A hundred suspicions don’t make a proof." – Porfiry Petrovitch

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Porfiry Petrovitch's observation highlights the distinction between suspicions and concrete evidence. It prompts reflection on the necessity of substantiated proof in discerning truth from speculation. Petrovitch's words evoke a sense of caution against drawing conclusions prematurely, urging readers to uphold the standards of evidence in their judgments and decision-making processes.


"The man who has a conscience suffers whilst acknowledging his sin. That is his punishment – as well as prison." – Raskolnikov

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Raskolnikov's insight delves into the torment of conscience, highlighting the internal suffering of acknowledging wrongdoing. It prompts reflection on the psychological burden of moral guilt.


"Break what must be broken, once for all, that’s all, and take the suffering on oneself." – Raskolnikov

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Raskolnikov's wisdom advocates a direct response to adversity. It emphasizes facing challenges with composure and courage, shouldering the suffering alone to break its hold.


"People with new ideas, people with the faintest capacity for saying something new, are extremely few in number, extraordinarily so, in fact." – Raskolnikov

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Raskolnikov's observation underscores the rarity of innovation and fresh perspectives. It prompts contemplation on the scarcity of individuals with the courage to introduce new ideas. Raskolnikov's words evoke a recognition of the need for greater appreciation and encouragement of originality and creativity in society.


"There is nothing in the world more difficult than candor, and nothing easier than flattery." – Svidrigalov

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Svidrigailov's statement emphasizes the challenge of honesty and the prevalence of insincere praise. It encourages reflection on the difficulty of speaking truthfully amidst a sea of flattering words. Svidrigailov's words evoke an awareness of the value of sincerity and the ease with which one can be swayed by false compliments.


"Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth." – Raskolnikov

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Raskolnikov's insight suggests that deep intelligence and profound empathy inevitably lead to suffering. It prompts reflection on the burdens carried by great individuals. Raskolnikov's words evoke an understanding of the inherent sadness that accompanies greatness, urging empathy towards those who bear such weight.


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