PHIL304: Existentialism

Read this essay, which focuses on Dostoevsky's novel Crime and Punishment - in particular, its main character, Raskolnikov. As the work's protagonist, Raskolnikov is a proud and rational being who must face the consequences of his actions. Considering Dostoevsky's anti-rationalism, in what way does Dr. McNeil characterize Raskolnikov as representing reason and rationalism? Is total freedom compatible with intellectual pride? How can reason get in the way of freedom? Or, how can reason make freedom possible?