Crime and Punishment, Part 3, Chapter 3 summary
Part 3, Chapter 3 of 40 · 20 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Raskolnikov receives his mother and sister, but his attempts at reconciliation expose his distress and distance from them. He renews his opposition to Dounia’s marriage, challenges Luzhin’s account of his charity, and agrees to attend an evening meeting despite Luzhin’s demand that he stay away.
What happens
- Zossimov finds Raskolnikov improved and recommends work, while Raskolnikov struggles to accept his visitors’ care.
- Raskolnikov reconciles with Dounia and explains that he gives his mother’s money to a destitute widow for funeral expenses.
- Pulcheria Alexandrovna reports Marfa Petrovna’s sudden death, and the family’s conversation exposes their fear of Raskolnikov.
- Raskolnikov feels unable to speak openly with his family and briefly moves toward the door before Razumihin stops him.
- Raskolnikov demands that Dounia reject Luzhin, but she defends her choice and accuses her brother of tyranny.
- After examining Luzhin’s letter, Raskolnikov agrees to join the evening meeting; Dounia also invites Razumihin.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Dounia challenges her brother’s moral authority rather than accepting his judgment of her marriage. Her question exposes the unequal demands within their argument.
Quick check
Who does Dounia invite to the evening meeting despite Luzhin’s objection?
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