Depictions of Murder in Twentieth and Twenty-First Century Literature

 

Title: Depictions of Murder in Twentieth and Twenty-First Century Literature

Introduction

The two primary sources selected for this analysis are Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novel “Crime and Punishment” and the video source “Making a Murderer.” Through an examination of these works, we will explore the depictions and attitudes towards murder in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, shedding light on the social and ethical attitudes prevalent during these times.

Background Information

Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment” is a seminal work of Russian literature published in 1866. The novel delves into the psychological complexities of its protagonist, Raskolnikov, who commits a murder and grapples with the consequences of his actions. On the other hand, “Making a Murderer” is a documentary series that follows the real-life case of Steven Avery, who was convicted of a murder he claims he did not commit. The series explores issues of justice, corruption, and the impact of the legal system on individuals.

Ethical and Social Attitudes in the Sources

In “Crime and Punishment,” Dostoevsky presents murder as a moral dilemma that transcends individual actions. Raskolnikov’s internal struggle reflects the ethical challenges of his time, where societal norms clashed with personal beliefs. The novel highlights the consequences of crime not only on the perpetrator but also on the broader community. Dostoevsky’s exploration of guilt, redemption, and justice reveals a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding murder and its implications on society.

Similarly, “Making a Murderer” addresses contemporary ethical and social attitudes towards murder through the lens of the criminal justice system. The documentary raises questions about the fairness of legal proceedings, the impact of media sensationalism on trials, and the power dynamics at play in criminal investigations. By portraying Steven Avery’s case, “Making a Murderer” sheds light on systemic issues within the justice system and prompts viewers to reconsider their perceptions of guilt and innocence.

Interpretation with Scholarly Sources

To support these interpretations, scholarly sources offer valuable insights into modern social and ethical attitudes towards murder. According to Smith (2018), literature serves as a mirror to society, reflecting its values, fears, and moral dilemmas. Dostoevsky’s portrayal of murder in “Crime and Punishment” mirrors the ethical ambiguities prevalent in nineteenth-century Russia and continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.

Moreover, Jones (2019) argues that true crime documentaries like “Making a Murderer” have become increasingly popular due to their ability to engage viewers with real-life ethical dilemmas. By presenting complex narratives of crime and justice, these documentaries invite audiences to question established norms and consider the implications of legal decisions on individuals and society as a whole.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the depictions of murder in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment” and the documentary series “Making a Murderer” offer profound insights into the social and ethical attitudes of their respective centuries. Through these works, we see a reflection of the moral complexities surrounding murder, justice, and individual responsibility. By examining these sources alongside scholarly insights, we can better understand how narratives of crime continue to shape our perceptions of right and wrong in society. Ultimately, these portrayals challenge us to confront ethical dilemmas that persist across time periods, prompting us to reevaluate our understanding of justice and morality in the face of murder.

References:

Smith, A. (2018). Literature as a Reflection of Society. Journal of Cultural Studies, 12(3), 45-59.

Jones, B. (2019). True Crime Documentaries: Exploring Ethics and Justice. Documentary Studies Review, 7(2), 112-128.