Ironically, Raskolnikov is punished more from his emotional suffering than he is punished in prison where he undergoes spiritual and emotional healing. Dostoevsky is a master on creating a tortured, depraved but kindhearted character torn between conflicting passions and inner turmoil.
II. Crime and Punishment differs entirely from novels that embrace elegant and graceful writing combined with sophisticated language. As Dmitri Merejkowski describes, Dostoevsky writes "hasty" with "clearly neglected language". Dostoevsky defies all elements of literary convention, concentrating primarily on the content of his novel rather than the fundamental practices of literature. .
Exploring into the depths of human mind, Dostoevsky grasps the true psychology of his characters, depicting them emotionally sick and spiritually corrupt. Raskolnikov is emotionally sick because he believes he is a "Superman" or even a supernatural human. Feelings of "supernatural lightness" and superior existence cause Raskolnikov to be mentally and emotionally ill. Raskolnikov becomes aware of unfamiliar feelings, "What was taking place in him was totally unfamiliar, new, sudden, never before experienced." By probing into the state of mind of Raskolnikov, Dostoevsky completely captures the emotional essence of his character. Merejkowski implies that all of Dostoevsky's heroes are "God-tortured." Raskolnikov denies his love for God and suffers throughout most of the novel. "Denial and affirmation of God" will not only lead to moral corruption but emotional corruption as well. It is not until Raskolnikov turns to the Lord and indicates his passion for Him that he becomes cured emotionally. The only way to succeed in mental rehabilitation is through spiritual love of God, Doestoevsky theorizes. Dostoevsky is able to create complex, well-developed characters by examining the aspects and qualities of a character that coincide with the human psyche.
