Variants for the Continuation of the Novel Crime and Punishment in Russian-Language Fanfiction

Abstract

The study examines Russian-language fanfiction that explores potential continuations of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novel Crime and Punishment. Within the thematic corpus of fanfiction, the analysis distinguishes between local perspectives — secondary texts that develop specific elements of the primary text — and post-canons, fan-created narratives centered around the novel’s epilogue. A noticeable imbalance is observed, as post-canonical essays are rarely produced, reflecting the infrequent re-reading of Crime and Punishment by contemporary students. Instead, fanfiction often focuses on local perspectives, sometimes limited to onomastic parallels, which stems from a broader trend of non-(re)reading of Dostoevsky’s work. The article highlights that fanfiction authors frequently engage with provocative themes, particularly in the genre of “missing scenes.” In cases where these scenes correspond to a “curtain scene,” fanfiction writers often adopt a cynical approach to the characters of Crime and Punishment. When such direct comparisons are not feasible, opportunities arise for young “book enthusiasts” — those capable of engaging with classical texts without succumbing to the distortions of “clip thinking.” The study argues for incorporating the writing of post-canonical essays based on Dostoevsky’s novel into the creative assignments for tenth-grade students. This practice is justified by its potential to increase students’ motivation to read, foster their engagement in a creative dialogue with the original work, and encourage a more thoughtful and responsible approach to literature and language.

Keywords

• dostoevsky
• crime and punishment
• reflection
• fan creativity
• fanfiction
• fanfic
• fandom
• ficwriter
• post-canon