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

Short Answer Questions

1. Who is the letter from?

2. What details does Porfiry mention about Raskolnikov's recent behavior?

3. Who does Raskolnikov go to see the next morning?

4. Which family does Raskolnikov mention?

5. Who does Raskolnikov owe money to?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Nicolas suspected of the murder?

2. Why do you think Dunya chooses her brother over her fiance Luzhin?

3. What does Sonia symbolize to Raskolnikov?

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

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

6. Why do you think Raskolnikov leaves the room so abruptly in chapter three?

7. Why do you think Razumikhin is infatuated with Dunya?

8. In what way is Raskolnikov beginning to question himself and his theories?

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

10. How does Raskolnikov hide his guilt?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The painter Nicolas falsely confesses to the old lady's murder. What meaning do you think Nicolas's character brings to the novel? In what way do think Nicolas's social standing contributes to his false confession? What do think would have happened to Nicholas if he were found guilty? Do you think his punishment would of been more severe than Raskolnikov's?

Essay Topic 2

Dialogue plays an important part in the novel and one chapter consists of just a dialogue between Raskolnikov and Porfiry. Using example from the novel discuss the important part dialogue plays in the following areas.

1) Character development.

2) Plot development

3) The development of the novel's themes.

In what way do you think dialogue can be overused?

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)

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