Oblomov part 2 chapter 11 summary. The history of the creation of "Oblomov"
The second volume of “War and Peace” covers the events of public life in 1806–1811 on the eve of the Patriotic War. He can rightfully be called the only “peaceful” one in the entire novel. In the second volume, the author describes the personal relationships of the characters and their experiences, touches on the themes of fathers and sons, friendship, love and the search for the meaning of life, skillfully depicts the war and peace taking place in the souls of the characters. Volume 2 in a summary of parts and chapters can be read online on our website.
For a more accurate understanding of the essence of the second volume, significant quotes from the work are highlighted in gray.
Part 1
Chapter 1
The action of the first part of the second volume takes place in early 1806. Nikolai Rostov returns to Moscow on vacation. Nikolai’s friend Denisov, with whom he served in the same regiment, was traveling home with him to Voronezh. The Rostovs joyfully greet Nikolai and Denisov. Natasha even kissed Denisov, which embarrassed everyone.
The Rostovs tried their best to surround Nikolai with love. The next morning, Natasha shares with her brother that Sonya (Count Rostov's niece) loves Nikolai so much that she is ready to let him go. The young man likes Sonya, but he is not ready to give up the many temptations around him for her sake. When meeting Sonya, Nikolai addressed her as “you,” “but when their eyes met, they said “you” to each other and kissed tenderly.” The Countess is worried that Nikolai's love for Sonya will ruin his career.
Chapter 2
After returning from the army, Nicholas is well received in any society. He leads an active social life, goes to ladies and balls. He remembers the time before the war and his love for Sonya as a child.
At the beginning of March, the Rostovs planned a dinner at an English club to receive Bagration. In Moscow they tried not to talk about the defeat in the Battle of Austerlitz. Only when everything had calmed down, the main reasons were called the betrayal of the Austrians, the insolvency of Kutuzov, they even mentioned the inexperience of the emperor himself, etc. Everyone praised the Russian army, considering Bagration a hero. Bolkonsky was hardly remembered.
Chapter 3
On March 3, a festive dinner was held to which 300 people were invited. Among the guests were Denisov, Rostov, Dolokhov, Bezukhov and his wife Helen, Shinshin, and many prominent people of Moscow.
The long-awaited guest appears - Bagration. He “walked, not knowing where to put his hands, shyly and awkwardly, along the parquet floor of the reception room: it was more familiar and easier for him to walk under bullets across a plowed field, as he walked in front of the Kursk regiment in Shengraben.” Everyone joyfully greeted the guest and, leading him into the living room, presented him with a silver dish with poems in his honor. Bagration was embarrassed. Before they had even read half the poem, food began to be brought in and everyone decided that “dinner is more important than poetry.”
Chapter 4
During lunch, Pierre sat opposite Fyodor Dolokhov. Bezukhov is tormented by dark thoughts about Helen’s betrayal with Dolkhov, supported by gossip and an anonymous letter received in the morning - the author of which was ironic about the fact that the man does not see the obvious. Dolokhov, looking at Bezukhov, offers a drink “To the health of beautiful women and their lovers.” Pierre flares up and challenges Fedor to a Duel. Fyodor tells Rostov the “secret of the duel” - the main thing is to go with the clear intention of killing the enemy. Before the duel, Pierre is finally convinced of Helene's guilt and Dolokhov's innocence. Nesvitsky (Bezukhov’s second) and Rostov are trying to reconcile their rivals, but they are against it.
Chapter 5
Duel in Sokolniki. Before the duel, it turns out that Pierre does not know how to shoot, but he shoots first and hits Dolokhov in the left side. The wounded man still wants to finish the duel, but, losing strength, does not hit Bezukhov. Rostov and Denisov decide to take Fyodor to his mother, but he worries that if his mother sees him dying, she will not be able to bear the grief. Dolokhov asks Nikolai to go ahead and prepare his mother. Rostov is surprised that “this brawler, the brute-Dolokhov, lived in Moscow with an old mother and a hunchbacked sister and was the most gentle son and brother.”
Chapter 6
Pierre thinks about his marriage and relationship with Helen. He blames himself for marrying an unloved woman. Helen claims that Pierre is a fool for believing stupid gossip. The words of his wife infuriate Pierre - “his father’s breed showed in him,” and with a cry of “Get out!” he kicks Helen out. A week later, Bezukhov gave his wife a power of attorney to manage all the Great Russian estates and left for St. Petersburg alone.
Chapter 7
In Bald Mountains they received news of the death of Prince Andrei during the Battle of Austerlitz, but that his body had not been found and he was most likely dead. Bolkonsky is indignant about the war, that his son “was killed in a battle in which the best Russian people and Russian glory were killed.” The old prince asks to prepare Lisa, but Marya decides not to tell until Lisa gives birth.
Chapters 8-9
On March 19, the little princess began giving birth. Suddenly Andrei arrives in Bald Mountains. Marya does not immediately believe that Andrei is in front of her: “pale and thin and with a changed, strangely softened, but alarming expression on his face.”
Andrei comes to his wife in labor and sees her suffering written on her face: “I love you all, I haven’t done harm to anyone, why am I suffering? help me" . In pain, Lisa doesn’t even understand the importance of her husband’s appearance in front of her. During childbirth, the woman dies. During his wife’s funeral service, “Andrei felt that something had been torn away in his soul, that he was guilty of a fault that he could not correct or forget.” The son was named Nikolai, and the old prince became his godfather.
Chapter 10
Nikolai Rostov serves as aide-de-camp to the Moscow Governor-General. He became very friendly with Dolokhov. Fedora's mother shares with Rostov that her son is “too noble and pure in soul for our current, corrupted world,” “he is a lofty, heavenly soul that few understand.” Dolokhov said that he knows: he is considered evil, but this does not matter to him: “I don’t want to know anyone except those I love.” Often visiting the Rostovs, Dolokhov falls in love with Sonya, Nikolai does not like this.
Chapter 11
Farewell dinner at the Rostovs on the third day of Christmas - Nikolai, Dolokhov and Denisov had to leave for service again after Epiphany. Natasha tells Nikolai that Dolokhov proposed to Sonya, but she refused him. Rostov is angry with Sonya, but Natasha assures that the girl justified her refusal by the fact that she loves someone else. Natasha understands that her brother will never marry Sonya. Nikolai tells Sonya that although he loves her, he cannot promise anything and she should think about Fyodor’s proposal. Sonya replies that she loves him like a brother and doesn’t need anything more.
Chapter 12
Ball at Yogel's. Natasha was happy and in love with everyone and everything around her, and Sonya was proud of herself, because she refused Dolokhov. On the advice of Nikolai, Natasha invites Denisov, a superb mazurka dancer, to dance and, without realizing it, completely surrenders to the dance. At the end of the dance, everyone admires their couple.
Chapters 13-14
Fyodor sends Nikolai a note inviting him to a farewell party. Dolokhov coldly greets Rostov and offers to play cards for money. Losing, Nikolai spent the money that his father gave him, asking him to save, since the Rostovs were in a difficult financial situation. Rostov loses 43 thousand to Fedor. Nikolai understands that Dolokhov specially arranged his loss: Fedor says that the reason for Rostov’s loss was Sonya’s refusal.
Chapters 15-16
Arriving home, Nikolai is in a gloomy mood. However, enchanted by Natasha’s singing, he thinks: “It’s all nonsense! You can kill, steal and still be happy...” Nikolai comes in and in a cheeky tone informs his father about the loss: “Who hasn’t this happened to!” , hating himself in his soul and considering himself a scoundrel. However, seeing the count’s grief, he asks his father for forgiveness.
Natasha tells her mother that Denisov proposed to her, but she doesn’t like him. The Countess is stunned and advises Denisov to refuse. The girl feels sorry for Denisov, and the countess herself refuses the young man.
At the end of November, Nikolai leaves for the army.
Part 2
Chapter 1
In the second part of the second volume of War and Peace, Pierre Bezukhov travels to St. Petersburg, along the way he stops at the station in Torzhok. He asks eternal questions, finding the only answer: “if you die, everything will end. You’ll die and you’ll find out everything, or you’ll stop asking.” A man thinks that he has a lot of money, but it cannot add happiness and peace of mind to him.
A neighbor is assigned to Pierre in the rest room at the station: “The man passing by was a squat, broad-boned, yellow, wrinkled old man with gray overhanging eyebrows over shiny, indefinite grayish-colored eyes.” Bezukhov was very interested in a neighbor who was reading a book that seemed spiritual to Pierre, but he does not dare to speak first.
Chapter 2
The neighbor turned out to be a freemason Bazdeev. Pierre admits to his interlocutor that he does not believe in God, but he assures him that Bezukhov does not know God, and that is why he is unhappy. Bazdeev preaches the ideas of Freemasonry to Pierre. Bezukhov begins to believe the words of this man, feeling a joyful feeling of renewal, calmness and return to life.
Chapters 3-4
In St. Petersburg, on the advice of Bazdeev, Pierre retires and studies Masonic books. Bezukhov is accepted into the Masonic fraternity. Instructing during the initiation ceremony, the Mason tells him to seek the source of bliss in his heart, abandoning passions and feelings. During a meeting regarding Pierre's entry into the lodge, he begins to doubt the correctness of his action, but immediately returns his faith in the idea of fraternity.
Chapter 5
Prince Vasily's visit to Pierre. Vasily assures his son-in-law that Helen is innocent and offers to make peace, otherwise Bezukhov could suffer greatly. Pierre hesitates, realizing how decisive this step could be for his life. Angry, he kicks Vasily out. A week later, Pierre leaves for his estates.
Chapters 6-7
Helen in St. Petersburg. Society accepts her cordially and with a touch of respect, while Pierre is condemned by everyone. Evening at Scherer's, where Boris Drubetskoy was also invited. Boris was now an adjutant to an important person. He remembers the Rostov house and Natasha with hostility. Drubetskoy became interested in Bezukhova and she invites Boris to her place. The young man becomes a close person in Helen's house.
Chapter 8-9
The war is approaching Russian borders. Old Prince Bolkonsky was appointed one of the commanders-in-chief of the militia. Andrei, living in Bogucharovo (part of the Bolkonsky estate), decides not to fight anymore, accepting “a position under the command of his father to collect the militia.” During the illness of little Nikolushka, Andrei realizes that his son is the only thing left for him now.
Chapter 10
Pierre goes to Kyiv, where he leads an active social life. He intends to free the peasants on his estates, abolish corporal punishment, build hospitals, schools and shelters. However, to implement all this, Pierre lacks practical tenacity. As a result, the manager is in charge of everything, and Bezukhov is not aware of the real, difficult life of the peasants.
Chapter 11
Pierre comes to visit Andrey in Bogucharovo. Bezukhov is struck by the changes in Bolkonsky, his extinct and dead look. Pierre shares with a friend that he has found the source of happiness in life - living for others. Andrei objects, believing that you need to live for yourself, “you need to try to make your life as pleasant as possible,” “you need to live until death somehow better, without interfering with anyone.” Pierre does not agree.
Chapters 12-14
Pierre and Andrey go to the Bald Mountains. Bezukhov expounds to Bolkonsky the ideas of Freemasonry and tries to convince Andrei that God and eternal life exist. Pierre’s inspired speech, unnoticed by Bolkonsky, became the beginning of his changes for the better: “for the first time, after Austerlitz, he saw that high, eternal sky, and something that had long fallen asleep, something better that was in him, suddenly joyfully and youth awoke in his soul."
In Bald Mountains, Marya receives “God’s people.” Talking with Pierre alone, Marya shares her feelings about her brother, who carries his grief within himself. Everyone in the Bolkonsky family liked Pierre; after leaving, they said only good things about him.
Chapter 15
Rostov returns to the regiment. He decides to be “an excellent comrade and officer, that is, a wonderful person” and gradually repay his debt to his parents.
The Russian army concentrates near Bartenstein. The soldiers are starving and sick, which is why the Pavlograd regiment loses almost half of its people. In the spring, a new disease begins among them, manifested by swelling of the arms, legs and face. Doctors see the reason in the mash root that the soldiers eat.
Chapter 16
Denisov takes by force the transport with food that was being transported for the infantry regiment. The resulting crackers were enough for all the soldiers, but Denisov was called to headquarters to settle this matter. Denisov returns unsettled, saying that the food commissioner at the headquarters is Velyatin, whom he, angry, almost killed. At headquarters they open a case against Denisov. Due to his injury, Denisov goes to the hospital.
Chapters 17-18
After the Battle of Friedland, a truce was declared between the Russians and the French.
Nikolai goes to Denisov in the hospital. There is a typhus epidemic in the hospital. After examining the soldiers' chambers, Rostov was left with a painful impression: the living were lying next to the dead on the floor, on straw, on overcoats. Entering the officers' quarters, Rostov meets Tushin, whose hand was cut off, but he does not lose heart. Denisov's wound does not heal, so he asks Rostov to submit a request for pardon to the sovereign.
Chapters 19-21
Rostov goes to Tilsit on the Denisov case. Nikolai hopes that Drubetskoy will help him. Boris promises to help as best he can, but it is noticeable that he does not want to take on this matter. Rostov asks an acquaintance of the cavalry general to talk with the emperor about the Denisov case. The sovereign refuses the request, since the law is stronger than him.
Passing by the square, Nikolai witnesses a friendly meeting between Alexander I and Napoleon, who communicate as equals. Terrible doubts arose in Nikolai’s soul about the meaning of this war, which had claimed so many lives.
Part 3
Chapter 1
In the third part of the second volume, Napoleon and Alexander combine military forces. This happens in 1808-1809. As a result of negotiations, the Russians become allies of the French in an attack on Austria.
Bolkonsky introduces on his estates those positive reforms that Pierre conceived but did not implement. He reads a lot, becoming one of the most educated people of his time. Having seen an old broken oak tree during a trip to his son’s Ryazan estate, Bolkonsky thinks about his life, coming to the conclusion that “he didn’t need to start anything, that he should live out his life without doing evil, without worrying and without wanting anything.”
Chapter 2
Andrey goes to the Rostovs in Otradnoye. Seeing the joyful Natasha, it hurts him that she is happy with her separate, stupid life, and she doesn’t care about him. In the evening, having unwittingly overheard a conversation between Sonya and Natasha about the beauty of a moonlit night, Bolkonsky was afraid that Natasha would say something about him, but nothing was said, and the girls went to bed. In Andrei’s soul “suddenly there arose such an unexpected confusion of young thoughts and hopes, contradictory to his whole life.”
Chapter 3
Driving back through the same grove, Andrei finds the oak tree transformed and green. Bolkonsky suddenly felt an unreasonable feeling of joy and renewal, thinking that “No, life is not over at 31. Not only do I know everything that is in me, I need everyone to know it too.”
Chapters 4-6
Prince Andrey in St. Petersburg. Bolkonsky “renewed old acquaintances”: “They started talking about him, they were interested in him and everyone wanted to see him.” At Count Kochubey's, Andrei meets Speransky, whose activities he was very interested in. Speransky appears as a calm and self-confident man with awkward and stupid movements, a firm and at the same time soft look and a firm, meaningless smile. Speransky invites Andrei to visit. Bolkonsky sees in Speransky “the ideal of his perfection, to which he strived.” Bolkonsky is appointed head of the commission for drawing up military regulations and the commission for drawing up laws.
Chapter 7
Bezukhov has been at the head of Freemasonry in St. Petersburg since 1808. Pierre takes every possible care and sponsors the development of Freemasonry, but after a while he begins to become disillusioned with the truth of the movement, so he goes abroad, where he is initiated into the highest secrets of Freemasonry and given the highest rank.
Returning to St. Petersburg, at a ceremonial meeting of the lodge, Pierre says that it is necessary to act. Bezukhov proposes his own plan, but his proposal is rejected. This ends with a break in relations between Pierre and the Freemasons.
Chapters 8-10
Pierre feels intense melancholy. A letter arrives from Helen (she writes that she is bored and wants to see each other), and soon an invitation from her mother-in-law, who calls Bezukhov for an important conversation. Having succumbed to their influence, Pierre reconciles with his wife, asks her for forgiveness and feels a happy feeling of renewal.
Helen is in the center of high society in St. Petersburg. Bezukhova has her own salon, accepting a person in which “was considered a diploma of intelligence.” Pierre is surprised how people don't notice that his wife is stupid. Pierre is unpleasant that Helene often has Drubetskoy, although he previously liked him.
Chapter 11
Things have not improved for the Rostovs, so they come to St. Petersburg. In Moscow, the family belonged to high society, while “in St. Petersburg their society was mixed and uncertain.” Berg (an acquaintance of Count Rostov, an officer) successfully advanced in his career. The man proposes to Vera, and his proposal was accepted.
Chapters 12-13
Natasha is already 16 years old. Boris comes to the Rostovs and becomes interested in Natasha, seeing in front of him a matured, pretty girl. Drubetskoy understands that his interest in Natasha has not cooled down, but has become stronger. He stops visiting Helen and spends all his days with the Rostovs. One evening, Natasha shares her thoughts about Boris with her mother, saying that he is not her type. In the morning, the Countess talks with Boris and he no longer appears with them.
Chapters 14-17
New Year's ball at Catherine's nobleman. Natasha is very worried before her first ball, she is in feverish activity all day.
At the ball everything seems wonderful to Natasha, her eyes widen. Alexander I arrives and opens the ball. Andrei, at Pierre's request, invites Natasha. While dancing, Bolkonsky feels that “the wine of her charm went to his head, he felt revived and rejuvenated.” Natasha has fun and dances all evening.
Chapter 18
After the ball, Andrei thinks that Natasha has something “fresh, special, not St. Petersburg, that distinguishes her.”
Prince Andrei is losing interest in government reforms. One day, hearing Speransky’s unnatural laughter, Andrei sees in him a man without a soul and is disappointed in his ideal.
Chapter 19
Bolkonsky again visits the Rostov family, which seems to him “made up of wonderful, simple and kind people.” After the evening, Bolkonsky is happy in his soul, but he does not yet realize that he has fallen in love with Natasha. Andrey recalls Bezukhov’s words that it is important to believe in the possibility of happiness. “Let’s leave the dead to bury the dead, but while you’re alive, you must live and be happy,” he thought.”
Chapters 20-21
Evening at the Bergs'. Among the guests are Pierre, Boris, Andrey and Natasha. Watching the animated Natasha and Andrey, Pierre understands that something important is happening between them. Vera tells Andrey about Natasha's childhood love for Boris.
Chapter 22
Bolkonsky spends the whole day with the Rostovs. Natasha tells her mother about her feelings for Andrei; it seems to her that she fell in love with him back in Otradnoye. Bolkonsky shares with Pierre that he is in love with Natasha and wants to get married.
Social reception (celebratory reception) at Helen's. Pierre is gloomy, everything seems insignificant to him in comparison with eternity, he is equally oppressed by his own situation and the feelings of Natasha and Andrei. Andrey shares with a friend: “I wouldn’t believe anyone who told me that I could love like that. The whole world is divided for me into two halves: one - she and there is all the happiness of hope, light; the other half is everything where she is not there, there is all despondency and darkness...”
Chapters 23-24
Prince Andrei asks his father for permission to marry. Old Bolkonsky sets an indispensable condition: to postpone the wedding for a year.
Bolkonsky tells Countess Rostova of his intention to marry Natasha. The girl is happy, but saddened by the delay. Bolkonsky says that the engagement will remain a secret: he gives her freedom, and if Natasha wants, they will get married in a year. Andrei visits the Rostovs every day, behaves like a groom, the family quickly gets used to him. Andrey needs to leave. After her lover left, Natasha spent two weeks in her room, not interested in anything.
Chapter 25
The health and character of the old prince weakened. He unleashes outbursts of anger on his daughter Marya. In winter, Andrei comes to visit them, but does not tell his sister about his love for Natasha. Marya writes to Julie Karagina that she does not want to believe the rumors about Andrei’s intention to marry Rostova. Marya is against this marriage.
Chapter 26
Marya receives a letter from Andrei with a message about her engagement to Rostova. The prince asks to give the letter to his father and to work for him to shorten the appointed time. Marya gives the letter to the old prince and he becomes furious. Marya secretly dreams of forgetting about the world and becoming a wanderer, but she cannot leave her father and nephew.
Part 4
Chapters 1-2
In the fourth part of the second volume, Nikolai, at the request of his parents, comes to Otradnoye, since their affairs are going very badly. The young man interferes in household affairs, but quickly realizes that he understands even less about this than his father, and moves away from it. Nikolai notices positive changes in Natasha, but is unhappy that the wedding was postponed for a year.
Chapters 3-6
The Rostovs (Count, Nikolai, Petya and Natasha) go hunting. On the way, they are joined by an uncle, a poor relative of the Rostovs, with his people. Wolf hunting. Nikolai sets the dogs on him, but the hero of the day becomes the serf peasant Danila, who managed to cope with the beast with his bare hands. Continuing to hunt, Nikolai met Ilagin (the Rostovs' neighbor, with whom the family was in a quarrel), who intercepted the fox that Rostov was chasing. Despite the flaring hatred towards his neighbor, after meeting Nikolai he saw in him a kind, courteous master.
Chapter 7
Nikolai and Natasha are visiting their uncle in the village of Mikhailovka. Uncle Mikhail Nikanorych “had a reputation as the noblest and most disinterested eccentric,” whom everyone trusted and offered him good positions, but he refused. Inspired by her uncle's guitar playing and singing, Natasha begins to dance Russian folk dances, although it is not clear where all this truly Russian came from in her. The Rostovs return home.
Chapter 8
Rostov is in a critical financial situation. To improve matters, the Countess wants to marry Nikolai to a rich bride and directly writes to Karagina asking about her son’s marriage to Julie Karagina, and receives a positive response. Nikolai refuses Julie, gets closer to Sonya, this angers the Countess.
Chapters 9-11
Christmas time in the Rostov house. Natasha is sad about her groom; everything seems meaningless and boring to her. The girl thinks that she is getting old and, perhaps, when Andrei returns, she will no longer have what she has now. The Countess asks Natasha to sing. Listening to her daughter, the woman thought that “there is too much of something in Natasha, and that this will not make her happy.”
Dressed up in costumes and having fun, the Rostovs decide to go to their neighbors in Melyukovka. On the road, Nikolai realizes that he loves Sonya.
Chapter 12
The Rostovs return home. Peering into Sonya's face, Nikolai decides never to part with her. Nikolai shares with Natasha that he wants to marry Sonya. Natasha and Sonya are guessing. Natasha saw nothing in the mirror. Sonya thinks she saw Prince Andrei and something else red and blue. Natasha is afraid for her lover and is waiting to meet.
Chapter 13
Nikolai tells his mother that he wants to marry Sonya. The Countess is categorically against it. The woman oppresses and reproaches Sonya, accusing her of luring Nikolai. The Countess and Nikolai are quarreling. Thanks to Natasha, everyone comes to an agreement that Sonya will not be harassed in the house, but Nikolai will not do anything without the consent of his parents.
Nikolai leaves for the regiment, planning to put things in order and, and then, upon returning from retirement, plans to marry Sonya. Natasha begins to get angry with Andrei, who, while she is waiting for him, lives a colorful life. The old count, Natasha and Sonya leave for Moscow.
Part 5
Chapter 1
Pierre moves away from Freemasonry, leads an overly active social life, communicates with “single companies”. Not wanting to compromise Helen, the man leaves for Moscow, where he is warmly received. To escape real life, Pierre begins to read a lot.
Chapter 2-3
The greatly aged old Bolkonsky and his daughter come to Moscow, where the prince becomes the center of the Moscow opposition to the government. It’s hard for Marya in Moscow, deprived of communication with God’s people, she feels lonely. Old Bolkonsky becomes close to Burien (Marya’s French companion) and cares for her.
At his name day, the old prince expresses the opinion that the Russians will lose to Bonaparte as long as they meddle in the affairs of Europe and seek the support of the Germans. Count Rastoropchin says that France has become a standard and a god.
Chapter 4
Marya does not notice the courtesy of Boris, who often comes to them. Pierre asks Marya about Boris and says that he noticed long ago: Drubetskoy comes to Moscow only to marry a rich bride. Bezukhov asks if the girl would marry Boris. Marya admits that there are moments when she is ready to marry anyone. Pierre is amazed by her answer. Marya asks Pierre about Natasha. Bolkonskaya promises to “get closer to her future daughter-in-law and try to accustom the old prince to her.”
Chapter 5
Boris often visits Julie Karagina. The girl expects a proposal from him, but he was repulsed by her passionate desire to get married and her “unnaturalness.” Anna Mikhailovna pushes her son, saying that the girl’s dowry is very significant. Boris proposes to Julie. The wedding date is set and lavish preparations begin.
Chapter 6
Count Rostov with Sonya and Natasha stop in Moscow with Natasha's godmother, Marya Dmitrovna Akhrosimova, who offers to help prepare a dowry for Natasha. The godmother congratulates the girl on her groom and advises her to visit the Bolkonskys and her father tomorrow, trying to please Andrei’s family.
Chapter 7
Count Rostov and Natasha come to the Bolkonskys. Natasha is offended by the reception; it seems to her that Marya is doing her a favor. The old prince enters in a dressing gown, pretending that he does not know about his arrival. After the reception, the girls treat each other even worse. Returning, Natasha cries.
Chapters 8-10
The Rostovs are going to the opera. Natasha thinks about Andrei, that she doesn’t care about Bolkonsky’s father and sister, the main thing is her love for him. At the theater, Natasha and Sonya attract public attention. Helen also arrives, Natasha admires her beauty.
The opera begins. Natasha sees Anatole in Helen’s box, “an unusually handsome adjutant.” The girl notices that Anatole is looking only at her. At Helen's invitation, Natasha comes to her box. Bezukhova introduces Anatoly to the girl. Natasha is amazed that, despite many rumors, there is nothing terrible about Anatole, but for some reason it became cramped and heavy in his presence. At home, Natasha thinks about her feelings for Bolkonsky, realizing that the purity of her love has disappeared.
Chapter 11
Anatole came to Moscow to find a good match (to marry profitably) and stayed with Bezukhov. Few people knew that two years ago Anatole married the daughter of a poor landowner, but soon left his wife, agreeing with his father-in-law to send him money, thereby gaining the right to be a single man.
Anatole discusses Natasha with Dolokhov, saying that the girl made a strong impression on him and he would like to “drag after her.” Dolokhov dissuades Kuragin, advising him to wait until her marriage.
Chapter 12
Natasha is worried after her visit to the Bolkonskys and the theater, worrying whether her passion for Anatole has broken her promise to Andrei. Bezukhova invites the girl for the evening, doing this at the request of Anatoly, who asked to set her up with Rostova.
Chapter 13
Count Rostov, Natasha and Sonya at Helen's party. Natasha feels herself in a strange society, in “a crazy world, so far from the previous one, in a world in which it was impossible to know what was good, what was bad, what was reasonable and what was crazy.” Anatole takes care of Natasha; during the dance, the man confesses his love to the girl and kisses her. Returning home, Natasha thinks that she loves both Kuragin and Andrei.
Chapter 14
Marya Dmitrievna talks about her visit to the Bolkonskys and advises the Rostovs to return to the village, waiting for Andrei there. Natasha is against leaving. Akhrosimova hands over a letter from Princess Marya - Bolkonskaya regrets that they did not receive the Rostovs well and asks not to be offended by their father. A love letter arrives from Anatole, where he writes that he can no longer live without Natasha. If the girl agrees, “he will kidnap her and take her to the ends of the world.” Natasha thinks she loves Kuragin.
Chapter 15
Natasha writes a letter to Marya refusing Bolkonsky, “taking advantage of the generosity of Prince Andrei, who, when leaving, gave her freedom.” After a date with Anatole, Natasha tells Sonya about her intention to run away with him. Sonya says that the girl will destroy herself and decides to prevent the escape.
Chapters 16-18
Anatole discusses an escape plan with Dolokhov, which includes their wedding. Dolokhov tries to dissuade Kuragin, but Anatole does not listen to his comrade. Natasha's kidnapping is foiled. Dolokhov is the first to notice that something is wrong and helps Anatoly escape.
Natasha's intentions were exposed: Marya Dmitrievna forced Sonya to tell everything. Natasha admits to her godmother that she refused Andrei. Marya Dmitrievna decides to hide everything from the count.
Chapters 19-20
Marya Dmitrievna calls Pierre to her. Arriving in Moscow, Bezukhov avoided Natasha: “it seemed to him that he had a stronger feeling for her than that which a married man should have for his friend’s fiancee. And some kind of fate constantly brought him together with her!” . Marya Dmitrievna informs him about Anatoly’s unsuccessful attempt to kidnap Natasha, the breaking of his engagement with Andrei, and asks him to order Kuragin to leave Moscow. Pierre tells Akhrosimova that Anatole is married.
Bezukhov finds Anatole with Helen. The enraged Pierre tells them that “where you are, there is depravity, evil” and demands from Anatole that he give all Natasha’s letters and remain silent about their relationship. The next day Anatole left for St. Petersburg.
Chapter 21
Natasha finds out that Anatole is married and is trying to poison himself with arsenic. Pierre tries to dispel rumors in the city about Rostova's kidnapping.
Andrei arrives and his father gives him Natasha’s refusal. Andrei asks Bezukhov to return her letters and portrait to Natasha. Pierre reminds his friend of their conversation about forgiving a fallen woman, hinting at Rostova. Andrei replies: “I said that a fallen woman must be forgiven, but I did not say that I can forgive. I can't" . Seeing the joy in the Bolkonskys’ house, Pierre understands “what contempt and malice they all had against the Rostovs.”
Chapter 22
Pierre is with the Rostovs, he feels pity and love for Natasha. In a conversation, Bezukhov accidentally reveals himself, saying: “if I were not me, but the most beautiful, smartest and best person in the world, and were free, I would this minute on my knees ask for your hand and love.”
Upon returning home to Pierre, “all the people seemed so pitiful, so poor in comparison with the feeling of tenderness and love that he experienced.” Bezukhov sees the comet of 1812, which foreshadowed something terrible. However, to Pierre, on the contrary, “it seemed that this star fully corresponded to what was in his soul, which had blossomed towards a new life, softened and encouraged.”
Results of the second volume
A brief retelling of the second volume of “War and Peace” allows you to get acquainted with the main events in the lives of the heroes, occurring in parallel with important historical events for Russia - the Peace of Tilsit between Russia and France, as well as the period of Speransky’s reforms. The characters' premonition of inevitable changes is confirmed by the appearance at the end of the novel of a comet hanging over Moscow - a harbinger of the “end of the world.”
Test for the second volume
After reading, be sure to test your knowledge of the contents of the second volume with this test:
Retelling rating
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The second chapter (part 1) of the novel talks about how different visitors came to Oblomov.
First, a young man of about twenty-five entered, sparkling with health, impeccably combed and dressed. It was Volkov. Having shamed Oblomov for being in bed so late and calling his Persian robe a dressing gown, Volkov boasted of a new tailcoat and invited Ilya Ilyich to go to Yekateringhof, where entertainment was planned on the first of May.
Oblomov flatly refused, explaining the refusal by his ill health and the boredom that such holidays bring upon him. Instead of going to Ekateringof, he invited the young man to his place for dinner - he so wanted to complain about his two misfortunes, to which he refused, because he was dining with Prince Tyumenev. Having refused evening tea and being preoccupied with the fact that he had ten more places to go today, Volkov left Oblomov. When he left, Ilya Ilyich thought what an unhappy man Volkov was, because he had so much to do.
Then Sudbinsky, a former colleague of Oblomov, entered the room. During the time that Ilya Ilyich resigned, a colleague became the head of the department, which he announced, not without pleasure. Ilya Ilyich rejected Sudbinsky’s offer to pick him up for a party in Yekateringof, citing the fact that he was unwell and had a lot to do. They started talking about their colleagues, after which, as if by chance, Sudbinsky announced his upcoming marriage and invited Oblomov to be his best man.
- Of course, of course! - said Oblomov, glad that the wedding will take place only next week.
The bell rang. Sudbinsky, having said goodbye and promising to come again, left. While thinking that a career does not make people happy, Oblomov did not even notice that the writer Penkin, who works for a newspaper, was standing by his bed. Calling Ilya Ilyich “an incorrigible, carefree sloth,” Penkin began to talk about his latest article and the story he had written. In addition, he recommended that Oblomov read the poem “The Love of a Bribe Taker for a Fallen Woman,” the author of which is incredibly talented: you can hear either Dante or Shakespeare in it... Ilya Ilyich completely refused to read the masterpiece, explaining this by the fact that in such books there is no understanding of life and sympathy, just pride. Penkin did not agree with Oblomov, and they almost quarreled, but stopped in time. Penkin began to get ready to leave and remembered that he had come with the purpose of inviting Oblomov to a party in Yekateringhof. Ilya Ilyich again referred to ill health and invited Penkin to dinner. Penkin refused, since their editorial staff is meeting in a restaurant today, and from there they are going for a party. “Write at night,” Oblomov thought, “when can I sleep?..<…>Unhappy!"
The doorbell rang again. Alekseev entered (at least that’s how Oblomov greeted him, although no one knew exactly his last name: some said Ivanov, others Vasiliev, others Andreev). He was a man of uncertain age and uncertain appearance. There was no wit, originality or other features in his mind either.
Alekseev came to invite Ilya Ilyich to Ovchinin for lunch, and from there go to Yekateringhof for the holiday. Oblomov was still lying there, and Alekseev was walking around the room from corner to corner, waiting for him to wash himself. Finally, he couldn’t stand it and asked why Ilya Ilyich wasn’t going. Oblomov replied that it was cloudy outside and he didn’t want to go. Alekseev noticed that it was cloudy because the windows had not been washed for a long time.
In the end, Oblomov persuaded Alekseev to stay with him for lunch (it was Saturday, and he remembered that Tarantyev had been invited to lunch) and began to complain about two misfortunes that had happened to him. The finally found letter from the headman was read. Ilya Ilyich did not accept Alekseev’s advice to move to another apartment and go to Oblomovka himself to sort out matters. Alekseev said that if Stolz had come sooner, he would have sorted everything out. Ilya Ilyich became sad, was silent for a long time, and then realized:
- This is what needs to be done! - he said decisively and almost got out of bed. - And do it as soon as possible, there is no point in delaying... First of all...
But then a bell rang in the hallway.
| Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 |
Roman Oblomov reveals acute social problems of the past era. The novel touches on issues of the formation of society, the confrontation between Russian and European mentality, and touches on issues of happiness and love, the meaning of life. To get acquainted with the second part of the work, we offer a short version of this part of the novel.
Oblomov: part 2 summary
The novel itself is social and everyday, where such a concept as Oblomovism and its harmful influence on people are revealed. Goncharov’s work consists of four parts, but today we propose to study 2 parts chapter by chapter.
Chapter 1
Starting our acquaintance with the second part of Oblomov’s novel, we learn about. According to the author, he was German on his father’s side, while Stolz’s mother was Russian. He spent his childhood in Verkhlev, a village that was once part of Oblomovka. Knowing German, Stolz communicated in Russian. He was scientifically inclined, so at the age of eight he read a lot and studied history.
Having free time, the boy constantly ran to the boys in the yard. He played pranks with them, misbehaved, and often returned home with torn things. The mother was always worried about the child, but the father supported his son’s pastime. Once the boy disappeared completely for a week, the mother was completely exhausted, but the father was sure that the boy would return. And so it happened. The father did not scold his son, he only asked about the homework he had given him before his disappearance. It turned out to be not ready, and the father kicked his son out to where he came from until he translated the text and learned the role from the comedy.
When the boy matured a little, the father began to involve his son in business, giving various assignments. The mother was worried that such an upbringing would turn Andrei into a real burgher, but she herself saw a future master in her son. For these reasons, as soon as he returned, his mother washed him, changed his clothes, and taught him music, attracting him to beauty.
At the age of fourteen, Andrei was already earning money by tutoring, teaching at the boarding house where his father placed him. In the meantime, Stolz works and leads an active lifestyle, Oblomovka is located nearby, where there is an eternal holiday and where princes and princesses came. The owners of Oblomovka were not against Stolz and friendship with their son.
And then the time came when Stolz graduated from the university. The father decided that his son had nothing to do in the village, and Oblomov had already been sent to St. Petersburg. The time has come for Andrey to go there. Since his mother was no longer alive, and there was no one to object, Andrei goes to the big city.
Chapter 2
From the summary of the second chapter we learn that Stolz and Oblomov were the same age. Both were over thirty. Andrei was in constant motion, managed to serve, retire, save money, and buy a house. Wherever his work sent him, he always went on the road and came up with ideas. At the same time, he never made unnecessary movements. If he was lying down, then he was lying down; if he was sitting, then he was calm; if he was acting, then he was acting purposefully. He lived within his own means, walked through life firmly and never fantasized, but relied on reality. He was persistent in achieving his goal. Stolz was the complete opposite of Oblomov and it was surprising that they were friends. However, the heroes were connected by childhood, and he liked to feel like a strong personality when he was next to Oblomov. And next to his friend, Stolz found peace of mind; he rested, lazily talking with Ilya, whose childish, bright nature Andrei liked.
Chapter 3
In the third chapter of Oblomov's novel, Stolz comes to Oblomov. He begins to complain about his health: he either has stye or heartburn. The doctor advises going abroad, but Ilya refuses. Stolz understands that his friend needs to move, because he doesn’t go anywhere, lies in his room and constantly sleeps. Stolz offers to sell the apartment and go to the village. It is necessary to get out of a sleepy state, from which Oblomov himself cannot get out. But he said that his soul was not rushing anywhere and he saw no point in leaving the dream. Stolz was soon to go to Kyiv and invites his friend to go with him, but the petition needs to be written now. However, Oblomov is in no hurry and puts everything off until tomorrow. Andrey decides to bring his friend out of his passive state and stays with Ilya. He offers to go for a walk and called Zakhar to dress his master. While Stolz was ready to go out in two minutes, Oblomov sat lazily on the sofa, buttoning his shirt.
And so the friends left the house.
Chapter 4
The evening turned out to be very eventful. They visited, stopped by on Stolz’s business, dined with the gold miner and were constantly among the crowd, which was unnatural for Oblomov, who lived in solitude. We returned home very late. The rest of the week flew by at this pace. Of course, Oblomov constantly protested, complained, and said that St. Petersburg life was not for him. Even though people are scurrying back and forth, Ilya doesn’t see the point in this and in the fact that they are judging someone and counting other people’s money. All of them, like the dead, are no better than himself, because they even sleep while sitting, and Oblomov - while in his room. And young people are no better, sleeping standing up, driving around the streets, dancing at balls, judging those who dressed incorrectly and imagining themselves superior to others. No one has a clear view. And how is this life better? Here Stolz calls his friend a philosopher, who, as it turned out, had his own life plan. Oblomov introduces Andrei to him. According to Oblomov’s plan, Ilya wanted children and a family, to live away from the hustle and bustle in his Oblomovka. He would pick flowers for his wife in the morning, drink morning tea together, then walk in the park, go to the greenhouse. Meanwhile, food is already being prepared in the kitchen, and he and his wife are waiting for guests, for example Stolz. During dinner, everyone has a nice conversation, goes out into nature, and so on for the rest of their lives. However, Stolz does not agree with this, and Andrei calls the lifestyle described by Oblomov some kind of Oblomovism. It reminds us of their childhood dreams, which were not at all similar to the life described by Oblomov. But everything is in the past. Ilya admits that he might not be against changing everything, but nothing works out. Stolz decides to revive his friend so that he does not disappear. He, in turn, agrees to follow Stolz, admitting that there was no fire in his life. In a word, Stolz decides, no matter what, to take his friend with him abroad.
Chapter 5
When Stolz left, Oblomov began to think about it. The word sounded poisonous, and he comes to the decision to change his life, and it’s either now or never.
Two weeks later, Andrei heads to England, having previously taken Oblomov’s word that he will go to Paris, where they will later meet. Ilya seemed to be preparing to leave, surprising those around him. Everyone saw that our hero suddenly moved from his place. But Oblomov’s trip never took place. Three months have passed, and Oblomov is still there. Stolz sends angry letters to his friend, but they remain unanswered. However, some colors appeared in Oblomov’s life. They began to find him reading books more often. He began to move more, and no matter what position he chose, he was now unable to fall asleep. He even straightened the curtains and ordered the room to be put in order.
The reason for this behavior was Olga, whom Stolz introduced him to before leaving. Now Oblomov was a frequent guest of the Ilyins. He settled in a dacha, just opposite the Ilyins’ house, and constantly spent his days in the company of Olga, who turned out to be interested in Oblomov’s unusual personality. Stolz, in turn, told everything about Oblomov, knowing about his weaknesses, which the woman kindly laughed at. Stolz asks Olga to keep an eye on her friend. One evening the girl was singing. A tear appeared in Ilya's eyes. Olga suggested that Ilya felt the music so strongly, but Oblomov’s words of love escaped. But, as if having come to his senses, he ran out into the street. The girl remained standing at the piano without moving.
Chapter 6
Oblomov constantly thinks about Olga and she constantly appears in his dreams. Olga herself rarely comes to Oblomov, and she has become more mysterious. Stolz asked Olga not to let his friend fall asleep, which Olga began to do, developing a plan on how to make the hero move. But this declaration of love unsettled her and she did not know how to behave and was silent during meetings. Oblomov began to avoid the girl, but one day they collided. Oblomov began to explain himself. He said that those words came out involuntarily, that this was not true and that music was to blame for everything. He asked her to forgive and not be offended. And he almost confesses his love to the girl again. Olga replies that she is not angry and leaves.
Chapter 7
Oblomov looked after the girl for a long time, and then he headed home, where he saw dirt. He called Zakhar and ordered everything to be removed. Zakhar was married to Anisya, who was now responsible for Oblomov’s household. While Anisya was cleaning, our main character was thinking about Olga, that she too could love him, but could not admit it yet. Although, on the other hand, how could such a woman love someone like him... Looking at himself in the mirror, Oblomov saw significant changes in his appearance. He became fresher and prettier. Then a man came from Aunt Olga to invite Ilya to dinner. Oblomov got ready, he was in high spirits, although there were thoughts that Olga was just flirting with him.
Chapter 8
When Oblomov came to the Ilyins, the girl’s aunt and guardian of the girl’s small estate was there. However, the appearance of our hero did not excite those present. It was boring to be with them, but then Olga appears. She seemed somehow different. Even when she sang, she was different, and the music sounded without soul. This behavior of the girl was incomprehensible to Oblomov, and he goes home. In the following days, Olga behaved distantly, without curiosity, and Oblomov again began to return to his lazy way. One day, having gathered to visit the Ilyins, he became too lazy to walk up the mountain and returned home. Now he wanted to sleep all the time and he decides to move to the city. Zakhar told Olga about this, whom he met in a bakery. The same one made an appointment in the park, where Oblomov went, again feeling hope for reciprocity. When they met, they raised the topic of the uselessness of existence, and Oblomov considered his life to be so useless. He hints that life without a girl is like nothing for him, and Olga gives him hope. Now Ilya is happy and in this mood they say goodbye.
Chapter 9
Now Olga has no sudden changes in mood, but Oblomov constantly thinks about the girl. In a word, Olga has now become the first person for him. Oblomov could rarely be found at home; he was constantly with Olga. The girl was proud of herself and how she transformed Oblomov. But their relationship began to weigh heavily on both heroes. Oblomov is afraid that his fantasies will come true, he is afraid that the girl will demand decisive action. At the same time, Ilya is interested in why Olga does not talk about her feelings. As it turned out, her love is special, when it is a pity to leave for a short time, but it hurts for a long time.
Chapter 10
Ilya has gone into his feelings and lives with his meetings with Olga. However, the very next day Ilya sees himself as a tired person who is impossible to love. He compares their relationship to a game, an experiment in which Olga learns to love. He is a mistake, and as soon as she meets another, she will understand it. They don’t like people like him and Oblomov decides to break up with the girl. Having ordered Zakhar to say that he left, he writes a letter to Olga saying that she was mistaken in her feelings. The girl is waiting to meet in the park. A tearful Olga accuses him of Ilya deliberately hurting her. As a result, they explain, make peace and Olga heads home.
Chapter 11
A letter arrives from Stolz. He accuses Oblomov of immobility, that the construction of his house is not moving, that he does not go abroad, that matters in the village are not being resolved. But Oblomov was very busy and did not answer his friend’s letter. He was drowning in his feelings of love. However, the days passed, and Oblomov stood still. Olga begins to feel some kind of lack in their relationship, but she doesn’t yet understand what she’s missing. Oblomov began to notice the views of others and also does not understand that his behavior can ruin the girl’s reputation, that something needs to be changed in their relationship and his love is already like a crime. Oblomov understands that he needs to get married and decides to announce his intention in the evening.
Chapter 12
Oblomov is looking for a girl and finds her in a grove. There he tries to declare his love and propose marriage. At first, the words seemed to be stuck in his throat, he could not say anything, but then he invited the girl to become his wife. Olga was silent for a long time, then said that silence is a sign of consent. Oblomov is trying to find tears of joy or some kind of emotion in her eyes, but Olga said that she simply got used to the idea that sooner or later an offer would come. And suddenly Ilya began to doubt that maybe the girl did not love him, but was simply getting married. But after Olga admitted to him that she couldn’t live without him and that she was afraid of separation, Ilya felt happy.
- Mikhail Illarionovich Kutuzov- the central character of the novel, is described as a real historical figure, commander-in-chief of the Russian army. He maintains good relations with Prince Nikolai Bolkonsky, which also affects the attitude towards his son Andrei, who in the second part of the first volume of the novel is shown as the adjutant of the commander-in-chief. On the eve of the Battle of Shengraben he blesses Bagration with tears in his eyes. It was thanks to the talent of a military tactician, paternal attitude towards soldiers, as well as the willingness and ability to defend his opinion that the commander won the love and respect of the Russian army.
- Napoleon Bonaparte- real historical figure, French emperor. A narcissistic person, always confident that he is right, he believes that he can conquer the peoples of his power. He has strength of character, determination, the ability to subordinate, and a sharp and precise voice. Spoiled, loves luxury, accustomed to the admiration that people express towards him.
- Andrey Bolkonsky- in the second part of the first volume appears before the reader as the adjutant of Commander-in-Chief Kutuzov. He carries out orders with joy and devotion, wants to serve his native Fatherland, passes tests with dignity, if it is necessary to choose between his own safety and the opportunity to be useful to the Motherland, sacrifices himself for the good of others.
- Nikolay Rostov- in this part of the work he is shown as an officer of the hussar regiment. Noble, honest and open in his actions, he does not tolerate meanness, lies and insincerity. His attitude towards the war is gradually changing: the young man’s joy that he will finally experience the taste of a real attack is replaced by confusion from the sudden pain (Nikolai is shell-shocked in the arm). But, having survived the test, Nikolai becomes stronger in spirit.
- Bagration- is also a real character in the epic novel War and Peace. A famous military leader who led the Battle of Shengraben and thanks to whom Russian soldiers won this difficult battle. A courageous and persistent man, uncompromising and honest, he is not afraid of danger, standing in line with ordinary soldiers and officers.
- Fedor Dolokhov- officer of the Semenovsky regiment. On the one hand, he is a very selfish and cynical young man, with considerable ambitions, but, nevertheless, capable of tenderly loving his loved ones.
- Denisov Vasily Dmitrievich- captain, squadron commander. The boss and friend of Nikolai Rostov, burrs in conversation. Described as a "nice, sweet man", despite some flaws.
- Tushin- an artillery captain, brave and persistent, with a kind and intelligent face, although, at first glance, he seems timid and modest.
- Bilibin- Russian diplomat, longtime acquaintance of Andrei Rostov. A lover of witty conversations, a person of high intelligence.
Chapter first
In the second part of the first chapter of Leo Tolstoy’s work, the theme of war gradually develops. Russian troops are stationed in Austria. The headquarters of Commander-in-Chief Kutuzov is located in the Braunau fortress. The regiment is expected to be inspected by the commander-in-chief, the soldiers are preparing, and the company commanders are giving instructions. The dress uniform is fine, but the same cannot be said about the shoes, which are all worn out. However, this was to be expected, because the soldiers walked thousands of miles in these boots, and new ones were not issued.
One soldier named Dolokhov stood out from everyone because he was dressed in a bluish overcoat, which aroused the wrath of the regimental commander.
Chapter two
Finally, General Kutuzov arrived. “The regimental commander saluted the commander-in-chief, glaring at him, stretching out and getting closer.” A handsome adjutant walked behind Kutuzov. It was none other than Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, who reminded the commander of the demoted Dolokhov.
Kutuzov condescended to the soldier. “Please give me a chance to make amends and prove my devotion to the Emperor and Russia,” he said, although the expression in his gaze was mocking and impudent.
The check passed, and the commander and his retinue gathered for the city. Hussar cornet Zherkov, having caught up with Dolokhov, asked him several questions. After a short conversation they said goodbye.
Chapter Three
Returning from the review, the commander-in-chief, entering the office, ordered adjutant Andrei Bolkonsky to bring some papers. Kutuzov and the Austrian member of the Gofkriegsrat conducted a dialogue. The Russian commander-in-chief claimed that the Austrian troops were victorious. This was confirmed by a letter from Mack's army, which reported the army's favorable strategic position.
Kutuzov handed Andrei several letters, from which he had to compose a “memorandum” in French.
Next, the author describes what changes have occurred in Bolkonsky. “In the expression of his face, in his movements, in his gait, the former pretense, fatigue and laziness were almost not noticeable,” he was constantly busy with pleasant and interesting things, his smile and gaze became more attractive, more interesting.
It is noteworthy that Kutuzov singled out Andrei Bolkonsky among other adjutants, gave more serious assignments, and expressed the hope that in the future he would become an officer. Andrei “was one of those rare officers at the headquarters who believed his main interest was in the general course of military affairs...” But at the same time he was afraid of Bonoparte.
Chapter Four
Nikolai Rostov serves as a cadet in the Pavlograd Hussar Regiment. He lives under the same roof with captain Vasily Denisov. One day, an unpleasant story happened: Denisov’s wallet with money, which he had previously placed under his pillow, disappeared. The captain first attacked the poor footman Lavrushka, but Rostov realized who the real thief was and went to look for Warlord Veal in the tavern occupied by the officers.
The assumptions turned out to be accurate: having arrived at the place, asking Velyatin to look at the wallet and looking at it, Nikolai realized that he was right, and this thing belonged to Denisov. However, seeing Velyatin’s pitiful state, he did not take the money from him.
Chapter Five
There was a lively conversation between the squadron officers, the topic of which was a recent incident concerning the loss of a wallet. Rostov was urged to apologize to the regimental commander, he objected, feeling completely innocent of what happened, because he told the truth about who the real thief was, even in front of other officers. But the headquarters captain was afraid for the reputation of the regiment, so he continued to argue in favor of Rostov’s apology.
Suddenly the conversation was interrupted by Zherkov entering, who reported alarming news: Mak and his army had surrendered. It was necessary to prepare for the offensive.
Chapters six – eight
Kutuzov's army retreated to Vienna, the commanders-in-chief were given the order to destroy the bridges behind the army, and Prince Nesvitsky was sent to monitor its implementation. The shelling of the crossing began. At this time Denisov appeared and demanded that he be allowed through with the squadron.
The war flared up. The first wounded appeared, it was necessary to urgently set fire to the bridge so that the enemy would not do this. Finally, the denouement came. “The hussars managed to set fire to the bridge, and the French batteries fired at them no longer to interfere, but so that the guns were aimed and there was someone to shoot at.”
Nikolai Rostov was very worried. He looked at nature, at pine forests filled with fog, at the majestic sky - and so wanted to be there. There is so much grief and trouble on earth. Nikolai began to pray: “Lord God! He who is there in this sky, save, forgive and protect me!”
Chapter Nine
Kutuzov with his thirty-five thousandth army had to retreat. The task of the commander-in-chief is to unite with troops from Russia so that the army is not destroyed. On October 28, the commander-in-chief crossed to the left bank of the Danube and attacked Mortier’s division, defeating the enemy. This victory raised the morale of the troops.
Andrei Bolkonsky was sent by courier to Brunn to convey information about the victory to the Austrian court. However, the minister listened to this news indifferently and suggested resting until tomorrow. The prince felt himself beginning to lose interest in victory, and the entire recent battle now seems like a distant memory.
Chapter Ten
Andrei Bolkonsky was well received by his longtime acquaintance, a Russian diplomat named Bilibin, with whom he stayed in connection with the latest events. Finally, after so many days of inconvenience, he again, as in childhood, found himself in luxurious surroundings, which he was very happy about. In addition, the prince was pleased to communicate with a Russian person. Andrei told Bilibin about the cold reception of the minister, which surprised the diplomat a lot, because Kutuzov, unlike others, actually won a real victory over the enemy.
Before going to bed, Bolkonsky thought about the upcoming reception with the emperor.
Chapter Eleven
When Andrei Bolkonsky woke up the next day, he remembered the previous events. He had to go to a reception with the emperor, but before that he went into Bilibin’s office. There were already gentlemen there, young people from high society, diplomats, among whom was Prince Ippolit Kuragin. Bilibin began to give advice to Bolkonsky on how to behave properly before the emperor, and recommended that he speak as much as possible, since he loves audiences.
Chapter Twelve
Emperor Franz received Bolkonsky, standing in the middle of the room. The conversation consisted of questions and answers and was short. When Andrei came out, he was surrounded by courtiers who were disposed towards the young man. Everyone was happy, expressed their recognition and desire to see him. The Minister of War approached, congratulating him on the Order of Maria Theresa, 3rd class, from the Emperor.
So the news he brought was unexpectedly received. The commander-in-chief and the entire army received awards.
But suddenly, when everything seemed to be going so well, Bilibin said shocking news: “...The French crossed the bridge that Auersperg protects, and the bridge was not blown up...” Andrei understands that the Russian army is in danger, but does not accept Bilibin’s offer to go with him to Olmutz to take care of himself. On the contrary, he decides to go back ahead of schedule to help his own.
Chapter Thirteen
After driving for a short time, Andrei saw the Russian army moving in disorder. Bolkonsky began to look for the commander-in-chief, but he was not among the troops. Finally, it became known that Kutuzov was in the village, and the prince turned his horse there. Having arrived, he dismounted from his horse with the intention of resting and putting his thoughts in order. Suddenly, Nesvitsky’s familiar voice was heard from the window of the house, inviting him to come in.
From him Andrei learned that the commander-in-chief was in a neighboring house and, perplexed about what was happening, hurried there.
Kutuzov, seeing Andrei, seemed to remain indifferent and paid almost no attention to his devoted adjutant. He was occupied with completely different, disturbing thoughts.
Finally, he turned to Bolkonsky and, rejecting the objections of Prince Andrei, who wanted to remain in Bagration’s detachment, with the words “I need good officers myself,” he ordered him to sit in the carriage. And already on the way he began to ask about the details of the visit to the emperor.
Chapter fourteen
Kutuzov made a very difficult decision: “to retreat along the road from Krems to Olmutz” in order to connect with Russian troops. The French think that this army of four thousand - the entire army of Kutuzov and Murat - is concluding a truce for three days, in the hope of later destroying the enemy. He does not suspect that he is thereby allowing the Russian soldiers to gather their strength and rest. But Napoleon reveals the deception and writes a threatening letter to Murat with the order to immediately begin an attack on the enemy. Meanwhile, Bagration’s detachment warms itself by the fire, cooks porridge and does not think that there will be a big battle very soon.
Chapter fifteen
Andrei Bolkonsky insisted on the request to return to Bagration’s detachment. And now he is already greeted with special honors from his superiors, and given permission to find out how the troops are positioned. While making his rounds, Bolkonsky meets Staff Captain Tushin, and involuntarily develops sympathy for this unusual man, in whom “there was something special, not at all military.” The further Andrei Bolkonsky moved forward, closer to the enemy, the more decent and cheerful the appearance of the troops became ... "
Chapter sixteen
Having traveled the entire line of troops from the right to the left flank, Bolkonsky begins to review the location of the Russian and French troops from the hill and draws a plan to report to Bagration, when suddenly a sudden shelling from the French army begins: “a whistle was heard in the air; closer, closer, faster and more audible, more audible and faster, and the cannonball... exploding spray with inhuman force, plopped into the ground not far from the booth..."
Chapter Seventeen
"Began! Here it is!" - Bolkonsky thought when he saw the French advancing. The same phrase was written on the face of every soldier and officer... Captain Tushin, without receiving instructions from Bagration and acting as he sees fit, begins shelling the village of Shengraben, occupied by the French.
Chapter Eighteen
The confrontation between the Russians and the French continues. Bagration orders reinforcements to be sent in the form of two battalions of the 6th Jaeger Regiment. “The bullets constantly screeched, sang and whistled...” Prince Andrei, feeling that he is being pulled forward by an irresistible force, experiences happiness from the fact that he can serve the Fatherland.
Chapter nineteen
Regiment commander Bagration sees the need to retreat, however, as it turns out, this is risky for the lives of the soldiers. In the squadron where Nikolai Rostov served, there was talk of an attack. The young man's joy that he would finally experience what real battle was like was premature. In the first hours of the attack, he was wounded in his left arm.
Nikolai was scared, especially since he thought that he would now be taken prisoner. But he miraculously managed to get to the Russian riflemen.
Chapter Twenty
The regimental commander was seriously afraid that he might be guilty of an oversight before his superiors, because the infantry regiments, which were taken by surprise in the forest, ran out of there, “and the companies, mixing with other companies, left in disorderly crowds.” Therefore, wanting to help and correct the mistake at all costs, he urgently saddled his horse and galloped towards the regiment.
But the upset soldiers did not want to listen to the voice of their commander, which further aggravated the situation of the regiment. Everything would have ended disastrously if not for Timokhin’s company, which alone remained in battle formation. It was thanks to these courageous warriors that they managed to put the enemy to real flight.
Chapter twenty one
The cannonade gradually subsided, but the consequences of the recent hostilities were visible in everything. The wounded suffered especially, among whom was Nikolai Rostov, who tearfully asked to be put on a stretcher, because, shell-shocked in the arm, he could not go further. Finally, they heard him, and the young man received help; they even found a dressing station for Rostov.
Tushin was very, but, as it turned out, in vain, worried that he had lost two guns, because, as Andrei Bolkonsky said about him, “they owe the success of the day most of all to the action of this battery and the heroic fortitude of Captain Tushin and his company.”
Nikolai Rostov suffered greatly: from pain in his arm, and from the awareness of loneliness and uselessness to anyone, and from his own delusions. The most tormenting question was: “Why did he even agree to go to war?”
The next day, the French no longer attacked the Russian army.
"War and Peace". L.N. Tolstoy. Volume 1 Part 2. Description by chapter.
4.5 (89.57%) 23 votesIn St. Petersburg, on Gorokhovaya Street, on the same morning as always, Ilya Ilyich Oblomov is lying in bed - a young man of about thirty-two, not burdening himself with any special activities. His lying down is a certain way of life, a kind of protest against established conventions, which is why Ilya Ilyich so ardently, philosophically and meaningfully objects to all attempts to get him off the couch. His servant, Zakhar, is the same, showing neither surprise nor displeasure - he is used to living the same way as his master: how he lives...
This morning, visitors come to Oblomov one after another: on the first of May, the whole St. Petersburg society gathers in Yekateringhof, so the friends are trying to push Ilya Ilyich away, to stir him up, forcing him to take part in the social holiday festivities. But neither Volkov, nor Sudbinsky, nor Penkin succeeds. With each of them, Oblomov tries to discuss his concerns - a letter from the headman from Oblomovka and the threatening move to another apartment; but no one cares about Ilya Ilyich’s worries.
But Mikhei Andreevich Tarantiev, Oblomov’s fellow countryman, “a man of a quick and cunning mind,” is ready to deal with the problems of the lazy master. Knowing that after the death of his parents, Oblomov remained the only heir of three hundred and fifty souls, Tarantyev is not at all opposed to settling down with a very tasty morsel, especially since he quite rightly suspects: the headman of Oblomov steals and lies much more than is required within reasonable limits. And Oblomov is waiting for his childhood friend, Andrei Stolts, who, in his opinion, is the only one who can help him understand his economic difficulties.
At first, when he arrived in St. Petersburg, Oblomov somehow tried to integrate into the life of the capital, but gradually he realized the futility of his efforts: no one needed him, and no one was close to him. So Ilya Ilyich lay down on his sofa... And so his unusually devoted servant Zakhar, who was in no way behind his master, lay down on his couch. He intuitively feels who can truly help his master, and who, like Mikhei Andreevich, only pretends to be Oblomov’s friend. But from a detailed showdown with mutual grievances, only a dream into which the master plunges, while Zakhar goes to gossip and relieve his soul with the neighboring servants, can save him.
Oblomov sees in a sweet dream his past, long-gone life in his native Oblomovka, where there is nothing wild, grandiose, where everything breathes calm and serene sleep. Here they only eat, sleep, discuss the news that comes to this region very late; life flows smoothly, flowing from autumn to winter, from spring to summer, to again complete its eternal circles. Here fairy tales are almost indistinguishable from real life, and dreams are a continuation of reality. Everything is peaceful, quiet, calm in this blessed land - no passions, no worries disturb the inhabitants of sleepy Oblomovka, among whom Ilya Ilyich spent his childhood. This dream could have lasted, it seems, for an eternity, if it had not been interrupted by the appearance of Oblomov’s long-awaited friend, Andrei Ivanovich Stoltz, whose arrival Zakhar joyfully announces to his master...
Part two
Andrei Stolts grew up in the village of Verkhlevo, which was once part of Oblomovka; here now his father serves as manager. Stolz developed into a personality, in many ways unusual, thanks to the double upbringing received from a strong-willed, strong, cold-blooded German father and a Russian mother, a sensitive woman who lost herself in the storms of life at the piano. The same age as Oblomov, he is the complete opposite of his friend: “he is constantly on the move: if society needs to send an agent to Belgium or England, they send him; you need to write some project or adapt a new idea to business - they choose it. Meanwhile, he goes out into the world and reads; when he succeeds, God knows.”
The first thing Stolz starts with is pulling Oblomov out of bed and taking him to visit different houses. Thus begins the new life of Ilya Ilyich.
Stolz seems to pour some of his ebullient energy into Oblomov, now Oblomov gets up in the morning and begins to write, read, take an interest in what is happening around him, and his acquaintances cannot be surprised: “Imagine, Oblomov has moved!” But Oblomov didn’t just move - his whole soul was shaken to the core: Ilya Ilyich fell in love. Stolz brought him into the Ilyinskys’ house, and in Oblomov a man, endowed by nature with unusually strong feelings, wakes up - listening to Olga sing, Ilya Ilyich experiences a genuine shock, he finally finally woke up. But for Olga and Stolz, who have planned a kind of experiment on the eternally dormant Ilya Ilyich, this is not enough - it is necessary to awaken him to rational activity.
Meanwhile, Zakhar found his happiness - having married Anisya, a simple and kind woman, he suddenly realized that dust, dirt, and cockroaches should be fought, and not put up with. In a short time, Anisya puts Ilya Ilyich’s house in order, extending her power not only to the kitchen, as initially expected, but throughout the entire house.
But this general awakening did not last long: the very first obstacle, moving from the dacha to the city, gradually turned into that swamp that slowly but steadily sucks in Ilya Ilyich Oblomov, who is not adapted to making decisions, to taking the initiative. A long life in a dream cannot end immediately...
Olga, feeling her power over Oblomov, is unable to understand too much about him.
Part three
Having succumbed to Tarantiev’s intrigues at the moment when Stolz left St. Petersburg again, Oblomov moved to an apartment rented to him by Mikhei Andreevich, on the Vyborg side.
Unable to deal with life, unable to get rid of debts, unable to manage his estate and expose the swindlers around him, Oblomov ends up in the house of Agafya Matveevna Pshenitsyna, whose brother, Ivan Matveevich Mukhoyarov, is friends with Mikhei Andreevich, not inferior to him, but rather superior the latter with cunning and cunning. In Agafya Matveevna’s house, in front of Oblomov, at first imperceptibly, and then more and more clearly, the atmosphere of his native Oblomovka unfolds, what Ilya Ilyich treasures most in his soul.
Gradually, Oblomov’s entire household passes into the hands of Pshenitsyna. A simple, ingenuous woman, she begins to manage Oblomov’s house, preparing him delicious dishes, organizing his life, and again the soul of Ilya Ilyich plunges into a sweet sleep. Although occasionally the peace and serenity of this dream explodes with meetings with Olga Ilyinskaya, who is gradually becoming disillusioned with her chosen one. Rumors about the wedding of Oblomov and Olga Ilyinskaya are already scurrying between the servants of the two houses - having learned about this, Ilya Ilyich is horrified: nothing has been decided yet, in his opinion, and people are already moving from house to house conversations about what is most likely , that won't happen. “That’s all Andrei: he instilled love, like smallpox, in both of us. And what kind of life is this, all the excitement and anxiety! When will there be peaceful happiness, peace?” - Oblomov reflects, realizing that everything that is happening to him is nothing more than the last convulsions of a living soul, ready for the final, already continuous sleep.
Days pass by days, and now Olga, unable to bear it, comes to Ilya Ilyich on the Vyborg side. He comes to make sure that nothing will awaken Oblomov from his slow descent into final sleep. Meanwhile, Ivan Matveyevich Mukhoyarov is taking over Oblomov’s estate affairs, entangling Ilya Ilyich so thoroughly and deeply in his clever machinations that the owner of blessed Oblomovka is unlikely to be able to get out of them. And at this moment Agafya Matveevna is also repairing Oblomov’s robe, which, it seemed, no one could fix. This becomes the last straw in the throes of Ilya Ilyich’s resistance - he falls ill with fever.
Part four
A year after Oblomov’s illness, life flowed along its measured course: the seasons changed, Agafya Matveevna prepared delicious dishes for the holidays, baked pies for Oblomov, brewed coffee for him with her own hands, celebrated Elijah’s Day with enthusiasm... And suddenly Agafya Matveevna realized that she had fallen in love master She became so devoted to him that at the moment when Andrei Stolts, who came to St. Petersburg on the Vyborg side, exposed Mukhoyarov’s dark deeds, Pshenitsyna renounced her brother, whom she had so revered and even feared until recently.
Having experienced disappointment in her first love, Olga Ilyinskaya gradually gets used to Stolz, realizing that her attitude towards him is much more than just friendship. And Olga agrees to Stolz’s proposal...
And a few years later, Stolz reappears on the Vyborg side. He finds Ilya Ilyich, who has become “a complete and natural reflection and expression of ‹…› peace, contentment and serene silence. Looking and reflecting on his life and becoming more and more comfortable in it, he finally decided that he had nowhere else to go, nothing to look for...” Oblomov found his quiet happiness with Agafya Matveevna, who bore him a son, Andryusha. Stolz's arrival does not bother Oblomov: he asks his old friend just not to leave Andryusha...
And five years later, when Oblomov was no longer there, Agafya Matveevna’s house fell into disrepair, and the wife of the bankrupt Mukhoyarov, Irina Panteleevna, began to play the first role in it. Andryusha was asked to be raised by the Stoltsy. Living in the memory of the late Oblomov, Agafya Matveevna focused all her feelings on her son: “she realized that she had lost and her life shone, that God put his soul into her life and took it out again; that the sun shone in her and darkened forever...” And high memory forever connected her with Andrei and Olga Stolts - “the memory of the soul of the deceased, clear as crystal.”
And faithful Zakhar is there, on the Vyborg side, where he lived with his master, now asking for alms...
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