View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Porfiry do when he suspects someone?

2. What does Nicolas confess to?

3. What is Razumikhin's profession?

4. What is the name of the doctor that visits Rashkolnikov?

5. What Russian city does the story take place?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you think Raskolnikov arranges to meet Porfiry?

2. What does Sonia symbolize to Raskolnikov?

3. What do you think Raskolnikov's dream means at the beginning of this chapter?

4. How does Dostoevsky create so much drama in the murder scene?

5. In way does Raskolnikov show a weak will?

6. What do you think the horse symbolizes in Raskolnikov's dream?

7. How seriously is Raskelnikov thinking about his unnamed idea?

8. In what way does Luzhin's letter put the women in a difficult position?

9. In what way does Dunya and Mrs. Raskolnikov's new situation aide Razumikhin?

10. What is a magistrate in the context of this book?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Raskolnikov states that the masses "are inferior men" who are "conservative, respectable and docile". Examine this statement in relation to Raskolnikov's character. Why do you think Raskolnikov is reacting against the masses? Do you think he believes what he says?

Essay Topic 2

Choose one of the class distinctions below and describe their living conditions in 19th century Russia.

1) Working class

2) Middle class

3) Upper-class

Do you think Dostoevsky portray a severe inequality in Russian society?

Essay Topic 3

As Raskolnikov wanders around St. Petersburg, he feels tremendous guilt for his crime. What is it about Raskolnikov's character that prevents him from overcoming his guilt? Describe what kind of character could overcome such guilt and move on with their lives? What do you think would of happened to Raskolnikov if he did not confess?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 646 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample