Motives and Symbols in Fyodor Dostoyevsky Crime and Punishment: An Overview

Abstract

This research article aims to explore the major motives of crime and the use of various symbols in the
most celebrated novel Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Motives like alienation, nihilism,
utilitarianism and the idea of Superman are explored in this article along with the significance of major
symbols like the city of St. Petersburg, dreams, the cross and the colour yellow. This research article
explores the various facets, ideas and thoughts of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s philosophy of life, his
understanding of suffering, religious beliefs and views on crime and punishment.