Crime and Punishment, Chapter 1 summary
Chapter 1 of 40 · Part 1 · 13 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, Raskolnikov visits Alyona Ivanovna to pawn his father’s watch and rehearse an unnamed plan, studying her rooms, keys, and solitude. He leaves overwhelmed by disgust at his intentions, then enters a tavern, where beer briefly eases his weakness and distress without fully settling his troubled state.
What happens
- Raskolnikov avoids his landlady and walks through Petersburg, hungry, poorly dressed, and absorbed in a frightening plan.
- A drunken stranger calls attention to his hat, making him fear that its unusual appearance could identify him.
- He visits Alyona Ivanovna, notices a neighboring tenant moving out, and carefully studies her apartment.
- He pawns his father’s watch, accepts a reduced payment after interest deductions, and observes where Alyona Ivanovna keeps her keys.
- After asking whether her sister is present, he leaves in confusion and expresses revulsion at his own intentions.
- He enters a tavern, drinks beer, feels temporarily clearer, and looks around at the remaining drinkers.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Raskolnikov’s reaction to the hat reveals concern about recognition, not embarrassment about poverty. It shows how closely his frightening thoughts involve practical preparation.
Quick check
How much money does Raskolnikov actually receive for the watch?
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