Often in literature a minor character who appears only briefly nevertheless has a significant effect on aspects of the work such as theme and the development of other characters. This is especially true in the case of Marmeladov, the alcoholic ex-clerk in Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment. One of the dominant themes of the novel is that of moral redemption through suffering. Raskolnikov, who commits a heinous crime because he believes he is above morality, is beset by fear and guilt for his actions. Although he pays no attention at the time, early in the novel Raskolnikov is exposed by Marmeladov to the concept of divine forgiveness. Throughout the novel Raskolnikov must realize that his feelings of guilt will be alleviated only when he confesses his sins and finds faith in God. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay It is significant that Marmeladov is introduced at the very beginning of the novel. In this way Dostoevsky lays the foundation for Raskolnikov's future spiritual awakening. When Raskolnikov enters the bar, he has just enacted his plot to kill the old pawnbroker. Thus, during their first meetings, Marmeladov serves as Raskolnikov's conscience, proclaiming in flowery language that God will forgive all old sinners on the Day of Judgment. He is confident that in the Resurrection God will welcome him and the other “children of shame” because “…none of them thought themselves worthy of this” (Dostoevsky 27). This suggests that the only path to redemption in Dostoevsky's world is through humility, a characteristic that Raskolnikov certainly lacks at this point in the novel. It is clear that Marmeladov's philosophical statements are not taken seriously by his listeners because of his appearance. Not only is he drunk, but dirty and dressed in rags. It is difficult to believe a speaker equipped in this way, so it is no wonder that Raskolnikov takes pity on his new friend rather than seriously consider everything he has to say. In this way the sensitive and upright side of Raskolnikov's nature is exposed, especially when he deposits the money he himself needs on the windowsill of Marmeladov's room. However, despite his rare acts of kindness, Raskolnikov's character, who is young, arrogant, and irreverent, provides a direct contrast to that of Marmeladov, who is old, humble, and pious. The only traits these two characters have in common are poverty and guilt. Yet, while Marmeladov categorically states that poverty is not a sin and is rather resigned to his feelings of guilt for having reduced his family to abject poverty and his daughter to a life as a prostitute, Raskolnikov detests his own poverty and is obsessed with sense of guilt. The difference between the two is that, despite being a sinner, Marmeladov admits this fact and repents. In comparison, Raskolnikov believes that he will simply “get well and not worry” after his crime has been committed (Dostoevsky 99). Significantly, before killing Alyona Ivanovna, Raskolnikov justifies his crime with the logic that his death will benefit many others, and that he as a superman should not be subject to moral law. In particular, if he becomes financially independent, his sister will not have to sacrifice herself for him by marrying Pyotr Petrovich. This is why he proceeds with the murder despite the fact that he, unlike Marmeladov, has somewhere to turn to in the form of his mother and sister. However, after committing the crime and inadvertently killing an innocent in the form of Lizaveta, he is unable to face his.