n by talking with Dounia and Sonia. Otherwise, Raskolnikov would have confessed and would never have been reformed. Also, Raskolnikov shows no guilt for Nikolay's confession, further revealing the domination of the evil side of Raskolnikov. Irony is present in the conversation between Sonia and Raskolnikov in Part Four, Chapter Four. In this scene Raskolnikov verbally attacks Sonia for her religious beliefs, calling her "crazy", suggesting suicide, and stating, "But perhaps there is no God at all." This example of verbal irony shows that Raskolnikov is deeply troubled, as earlier he decided against suicide, and he is usually characterized as "crazy." However, he is intrigued at her strong believes and begins to ask her about the killing of the pawnbroker and Lizaveta. He explains to her that he has "broken with (his family) completely." This dramatic irony confuses Sonia, for she is unaware that Raskolnikov is the killer. However, it is used by Dostoevsky to allow Raskolnikov to realize that Sonia is a forgiving person and develop and interest in Sonia's religion. This leads to Raskolnikov's confession and also to his conversion to Christianity. Next, Dostoevsky uses irony in Svidriagaiolov's description of his love for Dounia to reveal his message that companionship is an important aspect of life. Svidrigailov explains his love for Dounia, and ironically his description parallels Raskolnikov's relationship with Sonia. The difference between Svidriagailov's relationship with Dounia and Raskolnikov's relationship with Sonia is that Dounia is repulsed by Svidrigailov. As a result, Svidriagailov commits suicide, dying abandoned and alone, while Raskolnikov lives. If Dounia loved Svidriagailov, he would not have committed suicide. Likewise, if Sonia abandoned Raskolnikov, he would have killed himself. This contrast in resolutions show that companionship can be a deciding factor in one's life, and that the love of others is vital. Irony play...
