This book is particularly interesting because Dostoevsy employs elements of a Christian allegory. Crime and Punishment parallels other renowned works such as Pilgrims' Progress and Augustine's study of the Christian journey. <br><br>Raskolnikov is shown in the beginning of the novel as destitute. He reduces his condition even further when he murders Aliona Ivanovna. After he kills her, Raskolnikov takes the purse from around her neck and tosses the two crosses back on the dead body symbolizing the departure from God. He shows himself to be a depraved sinner. <br><br>To be continued at a later date ...