Crime and Punishment: the importance of the epilogue The epilogue of the novel, Crime and Punishment, is a much criticized and misunderstood aspect of Doestevskij's novel. The truth is that it is vital to understanding the story and central themes. Raskolnikov goes from a state of Russian nihilism, fully encouraged by his theory, to one in which he finally admits, to himself, that he has committed a crime and that he has done wrong not only in the eyes of the law but also in his own eyes. to their own moral code. This is seen from his dream. He realizes all the implications of his theory. His journey to redemption has now brought him to the point where he can begin to revive his spiritual well-being. Dostoevsky's goal is also now complete. He wrote a story to warn young people of the danger of the Russian nihilism he saw pervading his environment. The final installment of this work also serves to further exemplify how the love between Raskolnikov and Sonia, with their very different perspectives on life, is the crux and core of the story. It is the focal point and without this important aspect the story would not have been so successful. Dostoevsky embodies everything he considers good in Sonia's character and actions. He obviously believes deeply in religion as an excellent and beneficial force for existence. He believes in charity and self-sacrifice, even altruism. Forgiveness and understanding are also the main virtues that characterize Sonia's character. It is these characteristics that D. strives to show can bring redemption to R. Through the memory of the dream, and the scene in which he falls at Sonia's feet and embraces her, finally beginning to truly love her, we see a changed man. A man for whom there is hope.