Comparing Raskolnikov And Razumikhin

The novel, “Crime and Punishment”, deals with the concept of morality and turns a critical eye to the idea of what truly constitutes as a true criminal act and what could be considered morally grey. To further explore this idea of morals, the novel utilizes the literary device of foil, and compares many characters to reveal their true nature. A good example of this technique would be the comparison of Raskolnikov and Razumikhin. While both characters possess the same intelligence, they individually possess different morals, goals, and motivations that lead to two very different outcomes.
The two could be considered different sides of the same coin, a comparison of goodness versus evil. Both men are completely capable of intelligent thought, which is shown by their general equality in school. However, the napoleon complex that Raskolnikov possesses, forces him to the extremities of what could be considered morally evil, while Razumikhin, despite his flaws, leans towards morally good. This could be exemplified in the disbelief of Razumikhin that Raskolnikov could possibly be a murderer, as

As it is stated within the text, “[s]omething strange had passed between them...some idea, something like a hint, something terrible and monstrous, suddenly understood on both sides...Razumikhin grew as pale as a corpse” (265). While Razumikhin goes to Raskolnikov later with the belief that his understanding was incorrect, this moment serves to paint both of them as complete and absolute equals. In this moment, they both completely understand each other and their polarity is cemented, allowing for a switch that leaves Raskolnikov free of obligations and Razumikhin stuck in the position of caring for Raskolnikov’s own