Crime and Punishment

The novel explores the legal and moral consequences of criminal acts, particularly through the looming execution of Gilbert and Vaucheray, and the tension between justice and mercy.

The burglary, murder, and arrests set the stage for themes of justice and retribution.

Gilbert and Vaucheray face the death penalty for murder during a burglary.

The trial and death sentence of Gilbert and Vaucheray exemplify the theme, as they are punished not only for their own crimes but also as proxies for Lupin.

The torture of Daubrecq by d'Albufex and Sébastiani illustrates a brutal form of punishment for past crimes.