Crime and Punishment, Part 2, Chapter 7 summary

What happens

1. Raskolnikov recognizes Marmeladov beneath a carriage and arranges for him to be carried home and examined by a doctor.
2. Katerina Ivanovna tends her husband, sends Polenka for Sonia, and argues with spectators, the landlady, and the priest.
3. Marmeladov asks Sonia for forgiveness and dies in her arms; Raskolnikov gives Katerina Ivanovna about twenty rubles.
4. Polenka embraces Raskolnikov and promises to pray for him, and he feels a renewed desire to live.
5. Raskolnikov visits Razumihin, takes Zossimov’s medicine, and hears about suspicions surrounding him as Razumihin walks him home.
6. Raskolnikov finds his mother and sister waiting in his room, faints during their greeting, and receives Razumihin’s help.

In this chapter

What to notice

After helping the family and receiving Polenka’s affection, he claims that life remains possible for him. His confidence contrasts with his physical weakness and collapse at home.

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