The protagonist, Raskolnikov, is a poor ex-student who harbors extreme ideological beliefs about morality and justice. He convinces himself that great individuals are above societal laws and that killing one person to benefit many is justifiable. Holding onto this rationale, he decides to murder the pawnbroker, Alyona Ivanovna. Just before committing the crime, he receives a letter from his mother and sister, Dunya, who are struggling financially, but his resolve remains firm. Finally, he carries out the murder, but things go awry when he is forced to kill Lizaveta, Alyona’s innocent sister. After the crime, Raskolnikov becomes overwhelmed with paranoia and guilt. As suspicion begins to mount, his mental state deteriorates further.
