The Margin

Object

Krassotkin's Penknife

Also known as a penknife, a pen-knife.

Krassotkin's Penknife is first mentioned by the boys as the weapon used in class against Krassotkin. They cite it to explain why they are pelting the solitary boy with stones, insisting that the stabbing bled and must be punished. At this horizon, the object is a schoolroom accusation that makes the children's fight feel dangerous rather than merely rough.

IV-VII. And In The Open Air

Captain Snegiryov has heard that Ilusha stabbed Krassotkin, and Alyosha connects the report to Ilusha's anger after his father's humiliation.

X-I. Kolya Krassotkin

When Kolya Krassotkin is introduced directly, the penknife incident is confirmed as part of Ilusha's defense of his father against the boys' taunts.

X-IV. The Lost Dog

Kolya gives the fullest account: Ilusha, cast off by him and persecuted by the boys, saw Kolya watching and struck him in the thigh with the penknife before breaking down.

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The Margin

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Krassotkin's Penknife