Detailed contents of volume 1 war peace

PART ONE

I

Eh bien, mon prince. Genes et Lucques ne sont plus que des apanages, des estates, de la famille Buonaparte. Non, je vous previens, que si vous ne me dites pas, que nous avons la guerre, si vous vous permettez encore de pallier toutes les infamies, toutes les atrocites de cet Antichrist (ma parole, j"y crois) - je ne vous connais plus, vous n"etes plus mon ami, vous n"etes plus my faithful slave, comme vous dites. [ Well, prince, Genoa and Lucca have become nothing more than estates of the Bonaparte family. No, I’m warning you, if you don’t tell me that we are at war, if you still allow yourself to defend all the nasty things, all the horrors of this Antichrist (really, I believe that he is the Antichrist) - I don’t know you anymore, you don’t my friend, you are no longer my faithful slave, as you say . ] Well, hello, hello. Je vois que je vous fais peur, [ I see that I'm scaring you , ] sit down and tell me.

This is what the famous Anna Pavlovna Sherer, maid of honor and close associate of Empress Maria Feodorovna, said in July 1805, meeting the important and official Prince Vasily, who was the first to arrive at her evening. Anna Pavlovna had been coughing for several days; she had flu as she said ( flu was then a new word, used only by rare people). In the notes sent out in the morning by the red footman, it was written without distinction in all:

“Si vous n"avez rien de mieux a faire, M. le comte (or mon prince), et si la perspective de passer la soiree chez une pauvre malade ne vous effraye pas trop, je serai charmee de vous voir chez moi entre 7 et 10 heures. Annette Scherer."

[ If you, Count (or Prince), have nothing better in mind and if the prospect of an evening with a poor sick woman does not frighten you too much, then I will be very glad to see you today between seven and ten o’clock. Anna Scherer . ]

Dieu, quelle virulente sortie [ ABOUT! what a brutal attack! ] - answered, not at all embarrassed by such a meeting, the prince who entered, in a court, embroidered uniform, in stockings, shoes, with stars, with a bright expression on his flat face. He spoke in that refined French language, in which our grandfathers not only spoke, but also thought, and with those quiet, patronizing intonations that are characteristic of a significant person who has grown old in the world and at court. He walked up to Anna Pavlovna, kissed her hand, offering her his perfumed and shining bald head, and sat down calmly on the sofa.

Avant tout dites moi, comment vous allez, chere amie? [ First of all, tell me, how is your health? ] Reassure your friend,” he said, without changing his voice and in a tone in which, due to decency and sympathy, indifference and even mockery shone through.

How can you be healthy... when you suffer morally? Is it possible to remain calm in our time when a person has feelings? - said Anna Pavlovna. - You are with me all evening, I hope?

What about the holiday of the English envoy? It's Wednesday. “I need to show myself there,” said the prince. - My daughter will pick me up and take me.

I thought the current holiday was cancelled. Je vous avoue que toutes ces fetes et tous ces feux d"artifice commencent a devenir insipides. [ I admit, all these holidays and fireworks are becoming unbearable. . ]

“If they knew that you wanted this, the holiday would be cancelled,” said the prince, out of habit, like a wound-up clock, saying things that he did not want to be believed.

Ne me tourmentez pas. Eh bien, qu"a-t-on decide par rapport a la depeche de Novosiizoff? Vous savez tout. [ Don't torture me. Well, what did they decide on the occasion of Novosiltsov’s dispatch? You know everything . ]

How can I tell you? - said the prince in a cold, bored tone. - Qu "a-t-on decide? On a decide que Buonaparte a brule ses vaisseaux, et je crois que nous sommes en train de bruler les notres. [ What do you think? They decided that Bonaparte had burned his ships; and we, too, seem ready to burn ours . ] - Prince Vasily always spoke lazily, like an actor speaking the role of an old play. Anna Pavlovna Sherer, on the contrary, despite her forty years, was filled with animation and impulses.

Being an enthusiast became her social position, and sometimes, when she didn’t even want to, she, in order not to deceive the expectations of people who knew her, became an enthusiast. The restrained smile that constantly played on Anna Pavlovna’s face, although it did not match her outdated features, expressed, like spoiled children, a constant awareness of her dear shortcoming, from which she does not want, cannot and does not find it necessary to correct herself.

In the middle of a conversation about political actions, Anna Pavlovna became heated.

Oh, don't tell me about Austria! I don’t understand anything, maybe, but Austria has never wanted and does not want war. She's betraying us. Russia alone must be the savior of Europe. Our benefactor knows his high calling and will be faithful to it. That's one thing I believe in. Our good and wonderful sovereign has the greatest role in the world, and he is so virtuous and good that God will not leave him, and he will fulfill his calling to crush the hydra of the revolution, which is now even more terrible in the person of this murderer and villain. We alone must atone for the blood of the righteous... Who can we rely on, I ask you?... England, with its commercial spirit, will not and cannot understand the full height of the soul of Emperor Alexander. She refused to clean up Malta. She wants to see, looking for the underlying thought of our actions. What did they say to Novosiltsov?... Nothing. They did not understand, they cannot understand the selflessness of our emperor, who wants nothing for himself and wants everything for the good of the world. And what did they promise? Nothing. And what they promised will not happen! Prussia has already declared that Bonaparte is invincible and that all of Europe can do nothing against him... And I don’t believe a word of either Hardenberg or Gaugwitz. Cette fameuse neutralite prussienne, ce n"est qu"un piege. [ This notorious neutrality of Prussia is just a trap . ] I believe in one God and in the high destiny of our dear Emperor. He will save Europe!.. - She suddenly stopped with a smile of mockery at her ardor.

Lev Nikolaevich Tolstoy

WAR AND PEACE

PART ONE

I

Eh bien, mon prince. Gênes et Lucques ne sont plus que des apanages, des estates, de la famille Buonaparte. Non, je vous préviens, que si vous ne me dites pas, que nous avons la guerre, si vous vous permettez encore de pallier toutes les infamies, toutes les atrocités de cet Antichrist (ma parole, j"y crois) - je ne vous connais plus, vous n"êtes plus mon ami, vous n"êtes plus my faithful slave, comme vous dites. [Well, prince, Genoa and Lucca have become no more than estates of the Bonaparte family. No, I warn you if you won’t tell me that we are at war, if you still allow yourself to defend all the nasty things, all the horrors of this Antichrist (really, I believe that he is the Antichrist) - I don’t know you anymore, you are no longer my friend, you are no longer mine faithful slave, as you say.] Well, hello, hello, Je vois que je vous fais peur, [I see that I'm scaring you,] sit down and tell me.

“Si vous n"avez rien de mieux à faire, M. le comte (or mon prince), et si la perspective de passer la soirée chez une pauvre malade ne vous effraye pas trop, je serai charmée de vous voir chez moi entre 7 et 10 heures. Annette Scherer."

[If you, Count (or Prince), have nothing better in mind and if the prospect of an evening with a poor sick woman does not frighten you too much, then I will be very glad to see you today between seven and ten o’clock. Anna Scherer.]

Dieu, quelle virulente sortie [Oh! what a cruel attack!] - answered, not at all embarrassed by such a meeting, the prince who entered, in a court, embroidered uniform, in stockings, shoes, with stars, with a bright expression on his flat face. He spoke in that refined French language, in which our grandfathers not only spoke, but also thought, and with those quiet, patronizing intonations that are characteristic of a significant person who has grown old in the world and at court. He walked up to Anna Pavlovna, kissed her hand, offering her his perfumed and shining bald head, and sat down calmly on the sofa.

Avant tout dites moi, comment vous allez, chère amie? [First of all, tell me, how is your health?] Reassure your friend,” he said, without changing his voice and in a tone in which, due to decency and sympathy, indifference and even mockery shone through.

How can you be healthy... when you suffer morally? Is it possible to remain calm in our time when a person has feelings? - said Anna Pavlovna. - You are with me all evening, I hope?

What about the holiday of the English envoy? It's Wednesday. “I need to show myself there,” said the prince. - My daughter will pick me up and take me.

I thought the current holiday was cancelled. Je vous avoue que toutes ces fêtes et tous ces feux d "artifice commencent à devenir insipides. [I confess, all these holidays and fireworks are becoming unbearable.]

“If they knew that you wanted this, the holiday would be cancelled,” said the prince, out of habit, like a wound-up clock, saying things that he did not want to be believed.

Ne me tourmentez pas. Eh bien, qu "a-t-on décidé par rapport à la dépêche de Novosiizoff? Vous savez tout. [Don’t torment me. Well, what did they decide on the occasion of Novosiltsov’s dispatch? You know everything.]

How can I tell you? - said the prince in a cold, bored tone. - Qu "a-t-on décidé? On a décidé que Buonaparte a brûlé ses vaisseaux, et je crois que nous sommes en train de brûler les nôtres. [What did they decide? They decided that Bonaparte burned his ships; and we too, it seems, are ready burn ours.] - Prince Vasily always spoke lazily, like an actor speaking the role of an old play. Anna Pavlovna Sherer, on the contrary, despite her forty years, was filled with animation and impulses.

In the middle of a conversation about political actions, Anna Pavlovna became heated.

Oh, don't tell me about Austria! I don’t understand anything, maybe, but Austria has never wanted and does not want war. She's betraying us. Russia alone must be the savior of Europe. Our benefactor knows his high calling and will be faithful to it. That's one thing I believe in. Our good and wonderful sovereign has the greatest role in the world, and he is so virtuous and good that God will not leave him, and he will fulfill his calling to crush the hydra of the revolution, which is now even more terrible in the person of this murderer and villain. We alone must atone for the blood of the righteous... Who can we rely on, I ask you?... England, with its commercial spirit, will not and cannot understand the full height of the soul of Emperor Alexander. She refused to clean up Malta. She wants to see, looking for the underlying thought of our actions. What did they say to Novosiltsov?... Nothing. They did not understand, they cannot understand the selflessness of our emperor, who wants nothing for himself and wants everything for the good of the world. And what did they promise? Nothing. And what they promised will not happen! Prussia has already declared that Bonaparte is invincible and that all of Europe can do nothing against him... And I don’t believe a word of either Hardenberg or Gaugwitz. Cette fameuse neutralité prussienne, ce n"est qu"un piège. [This notorious neutrality of Prussia is only a trap.] I believe in one God and in the high destiny of our dear emperor. He will save Europe!... - She suddenly stopped with a smile of mockery at her ardor.

Article menu

Main characters:

Pierre Bezukhov- a young man, the illegitimate son of Count Kirill Bezukhov. The author’s favorite positive hero, who throughout the novel lives a life full of changes and trials. After the death of Count Bezukhov, according to his father's will, he receives a huge fortune and suddenly, unexpectedly even for himself, becomes very rich.
Anna Pavlovna Sherer- maid of honor and close associate of Empress Maria Feodorovna, the owner of a fashionable high-society “political” salon in St. Petersburg, in whose house guests often gather. A woman with established opinions and traditions.

Anna Mikhailovna Drubetskaya- a princess who was very worried about her son Boris. She asked Prince Vasily to put in a word with the sovereign so that he would be transferred to the guard, and he went to meet her. She played a decisive role in the decision to divide the inheritance of Count Kirill Bezukhov, who was dying.
Boris Drubetsky- son of Anna Mikhailovna. In the first chapter he is shown as a decent young man, who, by the grace of the sovereign, was transferred to the guard. He lived and was educated by the Rostovs for a long time.
Count Ilya Andreevich Rostov- the father of a large family, a lively, cheerful, self-confident old man. He likes to live on a grand scale and throw feasts.
Natalia Rostova- the wife of Ilya Andreevich, a woman with an oriental type of thin face, about forty-five years old, apparently exhausted by children, of whom she had twelve...” The countess was used to living in luxury and did not know how to save.
Nikolay Rostov- the son of Count Ilya Rostov, a man with a cheerful and sociable character, to whom despondency is alien. Wanting to be useful to the Motherland, he decides to go to war.
Natasha Rostova- the main character of the novel. In the first part of the first volume - a thirteen-year-old, childishly spontaneous, cheerful girl with a perky character, Sophia’s cousin and good friend.
Sonya Rostova- Natasha’s cousin and friend, a kind girl who is in love with her friend’s older brother, Nikolai Rostov, and is worried about him going into the army.
Vera Rostova- unloved daughter of Countess Rostova. The girl is beautiful and smart, but despite this, she produces an irritating, unpleasant effect on everyone around her. In her family, Vera behaves proudly and arrogantly, points out her sisters' shortcomings and deliberately creates trouble for them. Vera gives the impression of a cold, soulless and heartless girl.
Nikolai Bolkonsky- retired general, father of the Bolkonsky family. In the first part he appears as an intelligent person who prefers accuracy in all his actions. He loves his daughter Maria, but raises her in excessive severity.
Maria Bolkonskaya- daughter of Nikolai Bolkonsky, a very rich and noble noblewoman, kind and gentle, a believing girl, loving people and trying to act in such a way as not to upset anyone. In addition, she is smart and educated, because her father himself taught her algebra and geometry lessons.
Andrey Bolkonsky- son of Nikolai Bolkonsky. This hero, unlike his father, does not have such a tough character. His behavior changes throughout the novel. In the first part of the first volume, he appears before the reader as an ambitious and proud young man who goes to war, despite the requests of his pregnant wife. Andrey is a sincere friend of Pierre Bezukhov, who wants to help him in everything.
Little Princess, Elizabeth- Andrei’s wife, a woman who loves secular society. She is a sweet, smiling, beautiful woman, however, she is very worried about the fact that her husband is leaving for the army and leaving her in a difficult situation. After all, Lisa is expecting a child.
Prince Vasily Kuragin- an important official, an aristocrat, an influential person who serves at the imperial court and is personally acquainted with the empress. A relative of Count Kirill Bezukhov, claiming his inheritance, which, according to the plot of the story, was received not by him, but by Pierre Bezukhov.
Helen Kuragina- daughter of Prince Vasily. A brilliant beauty of St. Petersburg with an unchanging smile. She makes great progress in the world, acquires a reputation as an intelligent woman, however, among her relatives she reveals such character traits as vulgarity, rudeness and cynicism.
Anatol Kuragin, the son of Vasily Kuragin, is a negative character in the novel “War and Peace”. He behaves cheekily, often commits obscene acts, although he belongs to aristocrats.
Marya Dmitrievna- a woman famous for her straightforward mind. She says what she thinks. She is known in Moscow, and in St. Petersburg, and in royal circles. The reader first meets this heroine at the Rostovs’ name day, who perceive her as a long-awaited guest.

Chapter first

The first chapter of Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy's story “War and Peace” shows a secular society. Events begin in 1805. Guests often gather in the house of the maid of honor and close associate of the Empress Anna Pavlovna Scherer. And now Prince Vasily, a very influential man, was the first to come to her. A conversation ensues between them, in which they touch on various topics: they discuss military events, politics, and also do not forget to mention how to arrange the future of children. Anna Pavlovna does not hide the fact that she is dissatisfied with the prince’s eldest son, Anatoly.

Chapter two

Anna Pavlovna's living room is gradually filling up. The author shows people of different temperaments, including Vasily’s daughter, Helen Kuragina, “in a cipher and a ball gown”; little princess Liza Bolkonskaya, who got married last year; as well as Pierre Bezukhov, presented by the writer as “a massive, fat young man with a cropped head, glasses, light trousers in the fashion of that time...”, who neither in appearance nor behavior fit into the spoiled secular society. This unexpected visit even caused concern for Anna Pavlovna, who, after briefly talking with Pierre, concluded that he was a young man who did not know how to live. However, Bezukhov himself felt uncomfortable among such high society.

Chapter Three

The hostess herself demonstrates to the guests the Viscount, a young man who considered himself a celebrity, and the abbot who visited her as “something supernaturally refined.” Various topics are again discussed, of which preference is given to the upcoming war with Bonaparte. Suddenly a new guest enters the living room - Andrei Bolkonsky, the husband of the little princess, whom Leo Tolstoy characterizes as the complete opposite of his wife. Andrey is surprised to see Pierre Bezukhov in a big light.

Chapter Four

Prince Vasily is about to leave. He is stopped by one of the elderly ladies who were present at Anna Pavlovna’s evening and begins, expressing alarm and concern, to beg for her son Boris: “What do you have to say to the sovereign, and he will be directly transferred to the guard?” The prince tries to object, saying that it is difficult to ask the sovereign himself, but Princess Drubetskaya (that was the name of the elderly lady) is persistent. And Vasily finally gives in to the pleas, promising to do the impossible.

We invite you to read Leo Tolstoy’s novel “War and Peace.”

Meanwhile, Pierre Bezukhov, who intervened in the Viscount's conversation about the execution of the Duke of Enghien, commits an extremely indecent act in the eyes of Anna Pavlovna. Expressing his opinion that Bonoparte did the right thing in this case, and excitedly proving that he was right, Pierre does not notice how he is increasingly dissatisfied with the hostess and bewildered by those around him.

Prince Ippolit involuntarily tries to defuse the situation by deciding to tell the public a very funny joke. And he succeeds.

Chapter Five

In this chapter, after the first sentence, which mentions that the guests began to disperse, the author begins to describe one of the main characters - Pierre Bezukhov. So, what adjectives does he use to show the character of this extraordinary personality? First of all, it's clumsy. Secondly, absent-minded. But these seemingly negative qualities became insignificant in the light of the good nature, simplicity and modesty that this young man possessed.
Anna Pavlovna approached Pierre and softly spoke about her hope that he would eventually change his mind. Andrei Bolkonsky, passing by, reminded his friend that he was waiting for him at his place.

A short time later, Bezukhov and Bolkonsky met again - already within the walls of Prince Andrei’s home. From the author’s description, it is clear that Pierre felt at home here. A casual conversation ensued, but Andrei Bolkonsky made it clear that his friend’s childish discussions about Napoleon were not interesting to him.

However, the question followed, why was he going to war, to which the prince replied: “I am going because this life that I lead here, this life is not for me!”

Chapter Six

Andrei Bolkonsky’s wife, little princess Lisa, entered the room. A dialogue immediately took place between her and Pierre. Pierre, with his childish spontaneity, did not fail to express his opinion that he was perplexed as to why Andrey should go to war. He touched on the sore subject of Bolkonsky’s wife, and therefore found support in her person. Lisa was afraid of separation from her husband - especially now, during pregnancy. Despair and fears took over, and she, without being embarrassed by Pierre, began to tell her husband everything she thought about his desire to join the army and leave it at such a difficult time. Bezukhov, who unwittingly became a witness to the beginning scandal, tried his best to calm Lisa down, but he had little success. Finally, Bolkonsky’s wife calmed down and resigned herself. Friends went to dinner.

And here, at the table, Andrei taught Pierre a valuable lesson about how to choose a life partner. “Don’t marry until you tell yourself that you did everything you could, and until you stop loving the woman you chose, until you see her clearly, otherwise you will be cruelly mistaken.” and irreparable,” he told his friend with conviction. And these words are worth thinking about for those who have decided to get married.

Andrei looked at Pierre with kind eyes, but still realized his superiority over him. He strongly advised his friend to leave “all these revelries,” saying that secular society was not suitable for such a nature as his. And he took his friend’s word of honor that he would not go to the Kuragins.

However, Pierre Bezukhov broke it immediately by leaving Andrei. The young man again went to Anatole to once again experience the taste of a dissolute life. They played cards there and drank a lot. Pierre could not resist and got so drunk that he also began to do unworthy things, bordering on madness.

Chapter Seven

The promise given to Princess Drubetskaya was fulfilled. Prince Vasily put in a word about her son before the sovereign, and he was transferred to the Semenovsky regiment as an ensign.

The princess herself turned out to be a distant relative of the Rostovs, from whom she temporarily rented housing and where her son Boris was raised.

The Rostovs had a big holiday - the birthday of mother and daughter. Both of their names were Natalya. This became the reason for the impending noisy fun.

In conversations with guests, some details were clarified. For example, the fact that Pierre Bezukhov, the son of the rich Count Kirill Bezukhov, turns out to have been illegitimate, however, the most beloved of the children, and since the Count was already very ill, those around him guessed who would get his huge fortune - Prince Vasily or Pierre.

They did not fail to talk about the unworthy behavior of Pierre, who, by getting involved with bad company, Dolokhov and Kuragin, compromised himself even more than at the evening with Anna Pavlovna, when he argued with the abbot about Napoleon’s actions. The story of the bear, to whom the rowdies tied a policeman and threw him to swim in the Moika River, caused conflicting reactions from those around him - some were indignant, while others could not stop laughing.

Chapter Eight

In this chapter, the reader for the first time has the opportunity to meet Natasha Rostova, one of the main characters of the novel “War and Peace.” At the beginning of the novel, she appears as a thirteen-year-old girl, cheerful and carefree. The author describes her as “dark-eyed, with a large mouth, ugly, but alive.”

Finally, in view of the name day, all the young people - Natalya, and Anna Mikhailovna’s son Boris, and the eldest son of Countess Natalya, Nikolai, and the Rostovs’ niece Sofia, and the youngest son Petya - settled in the living room.
At the end of the chapter, the author mentions that Boris Drubetsky and Nikolai Rostov were childhood friends.

Chapter Nine

At the beginning of this chapter, the Rostovs’ niece Sonya is described, who lives with them and with whom Natalya is very friendly.

The count father complains that his son Nikolai Rostov, imitating his friend Boris, is going to war, to which the young man objects: “It’s not friendship at all, but I just feel a calling to military service...”

However, Sonya, in love with Nikolai, can barely hold back her tears. The conversation turns again to children, and Countess Natalya mentions her eldest daughter Vera, intelligent, well-mannered, with a pleasant voice, whom she treated more strictly than the younger one, but who, unlike Natalya Rostova, does not make such a pleasant impression on those around her . This girl plays a minor role in the plot of the novel.

Chapter Ten

Natasha Rostova, hiding between tubs of flowers, becomes an involuntary witness to the scene that occurred between Sofia and Nikolai, who, having confessed his love to the girl, kisses her. Natasha herself, at that time thinking that she loved Boris, called the young man to her, “embraced him with both arms, so that his thin bare arms bent above his neck, and, throwing back his hair with a movement of his head, kissed him... on the very lips.”

Chapter Eleven

Countess Natalya, who has not seen her friend Anna Mikhailovna for a long time, wants to talk to her alone. However, her daughter Vera is in the room. I have to tell her straight out that she is superfluous and suggest that she go to the sisters.

In the next sofa room there are two couples sitting - Boris and Natasha, as well as Nikolai and Sophia. Vera does not understand the feelings of young people, and a verbal altercation ensues between the sisters. However, self-confident Vera does not feel that she has said anything bad; on the contrary, she considers herself right in all her actions.

Meanwhile, in the living room, the dialogue between Anna Mikhailovna and Countess Natalya continues. The conversation first revolves around Nikolai Rostov’s service in the army, then the princess decides to go to Count Kirill Bezukhov in order, before it’s too late, to arrange for support for his godson Boris - and informs the countess about this. Count Rostov proposes to invite Pierre Bezukhov to dinner, which will take place on the occasion of the name day at four o'clock in the afternoon.

Chapter Twelve

Anna Mikhailovna and her son drove into the wide courtyard of Count Kirill, and then went into the house. The doorman reported to Prince Vasily about their arrival. An atmosphere of sadness reigned in the room, because the elder Bezukhov was terminally ill, already dying. Having given short instructions to Boris about serving in the army, Prince Vasily began to listen to Anna Mikhailovna. “He needs to be cooked if he is so bad,” she urged, and the prince again realized that this woman, who so insists on her own, is not so easy to get rid of. And Princess Anna Mikhailovna, having asked Boris to communicate with Pierre Bezukhov and give him an invitation to the Rostovs’ name day, sat down in a chair. She made a firm decision - “to help follow her uncle.”

Chapter Thirteen

Pierre Bezukhov stayed at his father's house. The story told about his indecent behavior was fair, and therefore the attitude towards the illegitimate son of Count Kirill Bezukhov was not friendly. To the question: “Can I see the count?” An unfriendly, negative answer followed, and Pierre, who did not receive what he expected, had to go to his room.

When Boris unexpectedly paid Bezukhov a visit, he was at first surprised, although he greeted him friendly and simply. “Count Rostov asked you to come to dinner with him today,” the guest said after an awkward silence that seemed long.

The young people began to talk, and Drubetsky managed to refute the assumption that he and his mother wanted to “get something from the rich man.”

Pierre really liked Boris Drubetsky; he warmed to this intelligent and strong-willed young man.

Anna Mikhailovna informed the prince about the decision to prepare the dying Kirill Bezukhov.

Chapter fourteen

Countess Rostova, after Anna Mikhailovna’s departure, sat for a long time by herself, and then called the maid and ordered her husband to be called. Taking pity on her poor friend, she decided to help her financially, and for this purpose she asked her husband for five hundred rubles. He became generous and gave seven hundred. When Anna Mikhailovna returned, the new banknotes were already lying under a scarf on the table.

Here’s to Boris from me, to sew a uniform,” said the countess, taking out money and giving it to her friend.

Chapter fifteen

Finally, guests began to arrive for the name day. There were already many people sitting in the living room who had come to congratulate the heroes of the occasion, but most of all they were expecting Marya Dmitrievna, a woman famous for her directness of mind and simplicity of manner, who was known both in Moscow and St. Petersburg, as well as in royal circles.

The assembled guests preferred to talk about military topics. At first, they listened to the conversation that took place between an old bachelor named Shinshin, who was the countess’s cousin and Lieutenant Berg, an officer of the Semenovsky regiment. Then Pierre Bezukhov arrived, and the hostess, having told him several meaningless phrases, asked Anna Mikhailovna with her eyes to keep the young man busy.

Finally, Maria Dmitrievna arrived, who “took pear-shaped yakhon earrings from her huge reticule and, giving them to the birthday-shining and blushing Natasha,” suddenly turned to Pierre and began to scold him for the indecent behavior that the young man had allowed himself recently. In the end, the guests were seated at the tables. “The sounds of the count’s home music were replaced by the sounds of knives and forks, the conversation of guests, the quiet steps of waiters...”

Chapter sixteen

On the men's side of the table the conversation became more and more animated. One of the guests, a colonel, claimed that the manifesto declaring war had already been issued in St. Petersburg and insisted: “We must fight to the last drop of blood,” while Shinshin was perplexed as to why fight with Bonoparte at all.

Count Nikolai noticed that his son was also joining the army. “And I have four sons in the army, but I don’t bother. It’s all God’s will: you will die lying on the stove, and in battle God will have mercy,” Maria Dmitrievna said loudly. Suddenly Natasha Rostova’s childish voice was heard: “Mom! what kind of cake will it be?

Surprisingly, even Maria Dmitrievna did not get angry when she saw such tactlessness, but laughed at the girl’s spontaneity, followed by all the guests.

Chapter Seventeen

The holiday was in full swing. Suddenly Natasha discovered the absence of her cousin and beloved friend Sonya and, leaving the guests, went to look for her. She saw the girl lying “prone on her nanny’s dirty striped feather bed, on a chest” and crying bitterly. The reason for the tears was that her Nikolenka was going into the army, but not only that. It turned out that Sonya was deeply hurt by the words of Vera, Natasha Rostova’s older sister, who threatened to show her mother Nikolai’s poems and called her ungrateful.

Kind Natasha calmed her friend down, and she became cheerful again. The girls returned to the hall. The guests danced a lot, joked, and rejoiced at such a wonderful event held in honor of the name day of dear Natalya Sr. and Natalya Jr. It was clear from everything that the holiday was a success.

Chapter Eighteen

While joy reigned in the Rostov house, the Bezukhov family was experiencing severe grief, the approach of imminent loss: Count Kirill suffered a sixth blow. People gathered in the reception room, including the confessor, ready to administer unction to the dying man.

“Meanwhile, Prince Vasily opened the door to the princess’s room,” where, according to the author’s description, “it was dark, and there was a good smell of smoke and flowers.”

Vasily called the girl, whom he called Katish (this was his cousin Katerina Sergeevna), for a serious conversation. They discussed Count Kirill's will and were very afraid that the entire inheritance might go to his illegitimate son Pierre.

Prince Vasily rightly feared this, but Catherine initially objected: “You never know how many wills he wrote, but he couldn’t make a will to Pierre! Pierre is illegal,” but then, having learned that, by virtue of the count’s written appeal, the sovereign could grant his request for adoption, she was also seriously alarmed.

Vasily and Katish began to think over a plan to destroy the will in the name of Pierre; moreover, they wanted to create a situation where Kirill Bezukhov himself would annull it. The paper lay under the dying man’s pillow, in a mosaic briefcase, and Princess Catherine and Prince Vasily so wanted to get to it.

Chapter nineteen

Anna Mikhailovna turned out to be a far-sighted woman. She assumed that a struggle would flare up over the inheritance and went to the Bezukhovs, urgently calling Pierre. Young Bezukhov was afraid of the upcoming meeting with his dying father, but he understood that it was necessary.

The princess and the son of Count Kirill entered the reception room. Pierre, obeying his leader, sat down on the sofa. The eyes of everyone in the room turned to this young man. But there was participation in them, even respect, and young Bezukhov felt “that this night he was a person who was obliged to perform some terrible ritual expected by everyone, and that therefore he had to accept services from everyone.”

“God's mercy is inexhaustible. The unction will begin now. Let’s go,” Anna Mikhailovna decisively called Pierre, and he entered the room where his dying father lay.

Chapter Twenty

Before the gaze of Pierre, who knew well the furnishings of his father’s room, a sad picture appeared: his father lying under the icons “with the same gray mane of hair, reminiscent of a lion, over his wide forehead and with the same characteristically noble large wrinkles on his beautiful red-yellow face”; confessors who are ready to administer unction to those departing to another world; two younger princesses, rolling with an angry expression on their faces; Anna Mikhailovna, some unknown lady; Prince Vasily, who constantly crossed himself with his right hand, and others.

Pierre approached his father's bed. “He looked at the count. The Count looked at the place where Pierre's face was while he stood. Anna Mikhailovna showed in her expression an awareness of the touching importance of this last minute of the meeting between father and son.”

Chapter twenty one

There was no one in the reception room anymore, except for Prince Vasily and the eldest princess, who, at the sight of Anna Mikhailovna entering with Pierre, whispered that she could not see this woman.

Katerina was already holding the mosaic briefcase in her hands, which Anna Mikhailovna wanted to take away, persistently and feignedly affectionately convincing the princess not to resist. Two women tried to snatch the controversial item from each other. The fight continued until the middle princess ran out of the room where the count was dying. Katerina dropped her briefcase, which Anna Mikhailovna immediately grabbed and went with it to the bedroom.
Very soon she told Pierre that his father had died.

Chapter twenty two

The estate of the old Prince Nikolai Bolkonsky was eagerly awaiting the arrival of the young Prince Andrei and his wife, the princess. Nikolai himself was distinguished by a difficult character, recognizing only activity and intelligence as virtues. He raised his youngest daughter Marya himself, distributing her life in such a way that the girl did not spend time in idleness. Her father himself taught her algebra and geometry lessons. The main characteristic of this elderly man was precision, taken to the extreme.

On the day of the young couple’s arrival, Prince Nikolai gave his daughter a letter from Julie Karagina, a friend of the princess, which reported that Pierre Bezukhov had become a count, having received both the title and almost the entire inheritance from his father, becoming the owner of one of the largest fortunes in Russia. In addition, she spoke about Anna Mikhailovna’s plan to arrange Marya’s marriage with Anatoly Kuragin. In turn, the princess wrote a response letter in which she expressed pity for both Pierre Bezukhov, who suddenly became rich, and for Prince Vasily, who was left with nothing.

The girl also lamented the wars that people wage among themselves and was sad that this was happening. “... Humanity has forgotten the laws of its Divine Savior, who taught us love and forgiveness of insults, and believes its main dignity in the art of killing each other,” she sincerely expressed her opinion in a letter to a friend.

Chapter twenty three

Finally, Prince Andrei Bolkonsky and his wife crossed the threshold of their parents’ house. However, at this time the father, Prince Nikolai, was sleeping and even the arrival of such dear guests could not become a reason to disrupt such a familiar daily routine.

The father had twenty minutes left to rest, and so he suggested that his wife go first to Princess Marya.

Apparently, the little princess was in her husband’s parents’ house for the first time, so when she saw the luxurious furnishings, she could not help exclaiming: “This is a palace!”

Seeing that Maria was practicing playing the piano, the guests wanted to quietly leave, but then Mademoiselle Burien, Princess Bolkonskaya’s companion, noticed them and began to express delight that the long-awaited relatives had finally arrived.

Maria also saw her brother and wife and joined in the joy of their visit. Prince Nikolai did not stand aside either, and although he expressed his emotions more sparingly, he was still in a good mood due to the arrival of his son. And again conversations began on military topics, which worried people so much at that time.

Chapter twenty-four

Finally, it was time for lunch, and Prince Nikolai went to the dining room, where Princess Maria, Mademoiselle Burien and the prince’s architect were already waiting for him, for some reason he was allowed to the table, although he was not at all from the nobility. Everyone sat down, and the conversation began again “about the war, about Bonaparte and the current generals and statesmen...”

Chapter twenty-five

The next day, Prince Andrei was getting ready to leave. He was worried. This is how the author describes the mood of the young man at that difficult time: “He, with his hands behind him, quickly walked around the room from corner to corner, looking ahead of him, and thoughtfully shaking his head. Was he afraid to go to war, was he sad to leave his wife - maybe both..."

Suddenly the steps of Princess Maria were heard. She was upset, because she really wanted to talk to her brother alone. I looked at him and did not recognize my previously playful brother in this strong and courageous young man.

The sister admitted that she immediately fell in love with his wife Lisa, who, in her opinion, was still a child, but suddenly saw a contemptuous and ironic expression that flashed on Andrei’s face. However, he was very happy to communicate with his dear sister. The conversation proceeded peacefully and when Maria mentioned Mademoiselle Bourien, her brother did not fail to notice that he really did not like her. However, the good princess tried to justify her companion in his eyes, because she is an orphan and so needs to be treated well.

Suddenly a question followed, discouraging Maria. It was about how her father treated her, because it was clear that Andrei’s sister suffered from the difficult and tough character of her beloved dad. Most of all, the girl was depressing that her father did not believe in God. “...How can a person with such a huge mind not see what is clear as day, and can be so mistaken?” – she lamented about his religious worldview.

(93.33%) 12 votes

War and Peace. Volume one. Part one.

In July 1805, Anna Pavlovna Scherer, maid of honor and close associate of Empress Maria Feodorovna, met the guests. One of the first to arrive for the evening was the “important and official” Prince Vasily. He walked up to Anna Pavlovna, kissed her hand, offering her his perfumed and shining bald head, and sat down calmly on the sofa.

Prince Vasily always spoke lazily, like an actor speaking the role of an old play. Anna Pavlovna Sherer, on the contrary, despite her forty years, was filled with animation and impulses.

After discussing state problems, Anna Pavlovna started talking to Prince Vasily about his son Anatol, a spoiled young man whose behavior causes a lot of trouble for his parents and others. Anna Pavlovna suggested that the prince marry his son to her relative, Princess Bolkonskaya, the daughter of the famous Prince Bolkonsky, a rich and stingy man with a difficult character. Prince Vasily happily agreed to the proposal and asked Anna Pavlovna to arrange this matter.

YandexDirect

Become a partner of Yandex.Bar for Opera 11.60

Find out about additional features of the Opera 11.60 browser on the website

bar.yandex.ru 3 main secrets of luck: How

live easily and joyfully, playfully fulfill your desires! Training course.

pavel-kolesov.ru

Meanwhile, other guests continued to gather for the evening. Anna Pavlovna greeted each of the new arrivals and brought them to say hello to her aunt - “a little old lady in high bows who floated out from another room.”

Anna Pavlovna's living room began to gradually fill up. The highest nobility of St. Petersburg arrived, people of the most diverse ages and characters, but identical in the society in which they all lived; Prince Vasily's daughter, the beautiful Helen, arrived, picking up her father to go with him to the envoy's holiday. She was wearing a cipher and a ball gown. The famous... young, little princess Bolkonskaya also arrived, who got married last winter and now did not go out into the big world because of her pregnancy, but still went to small evenings. Prince Hippolyte, the son of Prince Vasily, arrived with Mortemar, whom he introduced; Abbot Moriot and many others also arrived.

The young Princess Bolkonskaya arrived with her work in an embroidered gold velvet bag. Her pretty upper lip, with a slightly blackened mustache, was short in teeth, but it opened even more sweetly and sometimes stretched even more sweetly and fell onto the lower one. As is always the case with quite attractive women, her flaw—short lips and half-open mouth—seemed special to her, her actual beauty. It was fun for everyone to look at this pretty expectant mother, full of health and vivacity, bearing her situation so easily...

Soon after the little princess, a massive, fat young man with a cropped head, glasses, light trousers in the fashion of that time, a high frill and a brown tailcoat entered. This fat young man was the illegitimate son of the famous Catherine’s nobleman, Count Bezukhy, who was now dying in Moscow. He had not served anywhere yet, he had just arrived from abroad, where he was brought up, and was for the first time in society. Anna Pavlovna greeted him with a bow that belonged to people of the lowest hierarchy in her salon. But, despite this low-grade greeting, at the sight of Pierre entering, Anna Pavlovna’s face showed concern and fear, similar to that expressed at the sight of something too huge and unusual for the place...

Just as the owner of a spinning workshop, having seated the workers in their places, walks around the establishment, noticing the immobility or the unusual, creaking, too loud sound of the spindle “...”, so Anna Pavlovna, walking around her living room, approached a mug that had fallen silent or was talking too much and with one word or movement she again started up a smooth, decent conversational machine...

But amid these worries, a special fear for Pierre was still visible in her. She looked at him caringly while he came up to listen to what was being said around Mortemart and went to another circle where the abbot was speaking. For Pierre, who was brought up abroad, this evening of Anna Pavlovna was the first he saw in Russia. He knew that the entire intelligentsia of St. Petersburg was gathered here, and his eyes widened, like a child in a toy store. He was still afraid of missing smart conversations that he might overhear. Looking at the confident and graceful expressions of the faces gathered here, he kept expecting something especially smart. Finally, he approached Morioh. The conversation seemed interesting to him, and he stopped, waiting for an opportunity to express his thoughts, as young people like to do.

The evening in Anna Pavlovna Scherer's salon continued. Pierre struck up a conversation with the abbot on a political topic. They talked heatedly and animatedly, which displeased Anna Pavlovna. At this time, a new guest entered the living room - the young Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, the husband of the little princess.

Prince Bolkonsky was small in stature, a very handsome young man with definite and dry features. Everything about his figure, from his tired, bored look to his quiet, measured step, represented the sharpest contrast with his little, lively wife. Apparently, everyone in the living room was not only familiar to him, but he was so tired of it that he found it very boring to look at them and listen to them. Of all the faces that bored him, the face of his pretty wife seemed to bore him the most. With a grimace marring his handsome face, he turned away from her. He kissed Anna Pavlovna's hand and, squinting, looked around at the whole company. Pierre and Andrey met and greeted each other like old friends.

In the midst of the evening the conversation turned to Napoleon. All those present condemned the policies and actions of the French emperor. Pierre entered into an argument with them, defending Napoleon.

“I say this because,” he continued with despair, “because the Bourbons fled from the revolution, leaving the people to anarchy; and Napoleon alone knew how to understand the revolution, defeat it, and therefore, for the common good, he could not stop before the life of one person...

“No,” he said, becoming more and more animated, “Napoleon is great because he rose above the revolution, suppressed its abuses, retaining everything good - the equality of citizens, and freedom of speech and the press - and only because of this he acquired power.”

The Viscount objected to Bezukhov, arguing that having seized power, Napoleon should have given it to the rightful king. The conversation attracted the attention of everyone present at the evening. The guests were surprised by the position of the strange young man, Anna Pavlovna tried to stop him, and only Andrei Bolkonsky “looked with a smile at Pierre, then at the Viscount, then at the hostess.”

When Anna Pavlovna was convinced that it was no longer possible to stop the young speaker, she decisively entered into the conversation, asking Pierre to explain how a great man (Napoleon) could execute the Duke, “without trial or guilt.” Pierre was confused, not knowing which of his interlocutors to answer. Andrei Bolkonsky came to the aid of his comrade.

- How do you want him to answer everyone all of a sudden? - said Prince Andrei. – Moreover, in the actions of a statesman it is necessary to distinguish between the actions of a private person, a commander or an emperor. It seems so to me.

“Yes, yes, of course,” Pierre picked up, delighted at the help that was coming to him.

“It’s impossible not to admit,” continued Prince Andrei, “Napoleon as a person is great on the Arcole Bridge, in the hospital in Jaffa, where he gives his hand to the plague, but... but there are other actions that are difficult to justify.”

Prince Andrei, apparently wanting to soften the awkwardness of Pierre's speech, stood up, getting ready to go and signaling to his wife.

Pierre left the salon to visit Prince Andrei. The young people discussed plans for the future. Andrei started talking about how he was going to participate in the war because the life he had to lead did not suit him. Andrei’s wife, Princess Bolkonskaya, also joined the conversation. Pierre said that he could not understand Andrei’s desire to go to war. The princess also did not approve of her husband’s plans and, taking advantage of the moment, once again reproached him for not loving her. The little princess’s words aroused irritation in Prince Andrei, which he seemed no longer able to restrain. Bursting in tears, the princess left, leaving the young people alone.

In the middle of dinner, Prince Andrei leaned on his elbow and, like a man who has had something on his heart for a long time and suddenly decides to speak out, with an expression of nervous irritation in which Pierre had never seen his friend before, he began to say:

– Never, never get married, my friend; Here's my advice to you: don't get married until you tell yourself that you did everything you could, and until you stop loving the woman you chose, until you see her clearly; otherwise you will make a cruel and irreparable mistake. Marry an old man, good for nothing... Otherwise, everything that is good and lofty in you will be lost. Everything will be spent on little things. Yes Yes Yes! Don't look at me with such surprise. If you expect something from yourself in the future, then at every step you will feel that everything is over for you, everything is closed, except for the living room, where you will stand on the same level as a court lackey and an idiot... So what!..

“My wife,” continued Prince Andrei, “is a wonderful woman.” This is one of those rare women with whom you can be at peace with your honor; but, my God, what I wouldn’t give now not to be married! “I’m telling you this alone and first, because I love you... You don’t understand why I’m saying this,” he continued. – After all, this is a whole life story. You say Bonaparte and his career,” he said, although Pierre did not talk about Bonaparte. – You say Bonaparte; but Bonaparte, when he worked, walked step by step towards his goal, he was free, he had nothing but his goal - and he achieved it. But tie yourself to a woman, and like a shackled convict, you lose all freedom. And everything that you have in you of hope and strength, everything only weighs you down and torments you with remorse. Living rooms, gossip, balls, vanity, insignificance - this is a vicious circle from which I cannot escape...

Andrei asked Pierre to give his word that he would stop leading a dissolute life and going to the Kuragins, where noisy companies gathered, and would start getting down to business. (Pierre lived with Prince Vasily Kuragin and took part in the riotous life of his son Anatole, the same one whom they were going to marry to Prince Andrei’s sister for correction.)

Despite this word, Pierre went from Bolkonsky to Anatoly Kuragin, where an ordinary gambling society was supposed to gather. Dolokhov, a Semyonov officer, an avid gambler, a friend of Anatoly Kuragin, made a bet with the Englishman that he would drink a bottle of rum while sitting on the third floor window with his legs hanging out.

Dolokhov was a poor man, without any connections. And, despite the fact that Anatole lived in tens of thousands, Dolokhov lived with him and managed to position himself in such a way that Anatole and everyone who knew them respected Dolokhov more than Anatole. Dolokhov played all the games and almost always won. No matter how much he drank, he never lost his clarity of mind. Both Kuragin and Dolokhov at that time were celebrities in the world of rakes and revelers in St. Petersburg...

Pierre tried to repeat Dolokhov's bet, but his friends dissuaded him, and together with Dolokhov he went to continue the party. Soon after the evening with Anna Pavlovna Sherer, Anna Mikhailovna, Princess Drubetskaya, returned to Moscow, to her wealthy Rostov relatives, with whom she often stayed and with whom her son Boris often lived and was raised.

The Rostovs had a birthday girl, Natalya, a mother and a younger daughter. In the morning, without ceasing, the trains drove up and drove off, bringing congratulators to the large, well-known house of Countess Rostova on Povarskaya throughout Moscow... Princess Anna Mikhailovna Drubetskaya, like a homely person, sat right there, helping in the matter of receiving and engaging in conversation with the guests. The youth were in the back rooms, not finding it necessary to participate in receiving visits. The Count met and saw off the guests, inviting everyone to dinner.

Princess Drubetskaya told everyone present the scandal: Dolokhov, Anatole Kuragin and Pierre tied the policeman and the bear together and let the bear into the wash (“the bear swims, and the policeman rides on it”). As punishment, Dolokhov was demoted to soldier, Bezukhov was sent to Moscow, and the matter with Anatoly Kuragin was hushed up thanks to the intervention of his father.

In the living room there was a conversation about how old Prince Bezukhov was dying, that the heir to the entire estate was Prince Vasily, but his father loved Pierre more, so it was unknown who would get the fortune, Pierre or Vasily. At this time Natasha ran into the living room:

A dark-eyed, big-mouthed, ugly, but lively girl, with her childish open shoulders, which, shrinking, moved in her bodice from fast running, with her black curls bunched back, thin bare arms and small legs in lace pantaloons and open shoes, I was at that sweet age when a girl is no longer a child, and a child is not yet a girl.

Among the younger generation, those invited to the name day were: Boris - an officer, the son of Princess Anna Mikhailovna, Nikolai - a student, the eldest son of the count, Sonya - the count's fifteen-year-old niece, and little Petrusha - the youngest son of the Rostovs.

The conversation continued in the living room. They remembered Napoleon, discussed issues of raising children: Boris is going to join the hussars, Natasha is taking singing lessons from an Italian, they also mentioned that she is in love with Boris.

At this time, Natasha hid among the tubs of flowers, hoping that Boris would look for her. At this time, an upset Sonya ran into the room, jealous of Nikolai. Nikolai entered after her. He ran up to the girl and tried to calm her down. The quarrel ended with a kiss.

“Oh, how good!” - Natasha thought, and when Sonya and Nikolai left the room, she followed them and called Boris to her.

“Boris, come here,” she said with a significant and cunning look. – I need to tell you one thing. Here, here,” she said and led him into the flower shop to the place between the tubs where she was hidden. Boris, smiling, followed her.

– What is this one thing? - he asked. She was embarrassed, looked around her and, seeing her doll abandoned on the tub, took it in her hands.

“Kiss the doll,” she said. Boris looked into her lively face with an attentive, affectionate gaze and did not answer. - You do not want? Well, come here,” she said and went deeper into the flowers and threw the doll. - Closer, closer! - she whispered. She caught the officer's cuffs with her hands, and solemnity and fear were visible in her reddened face. - Do you want to kiss me? – she whispered barely audibly, looking at him from under her brows, smiling and almost crying with excitement. Boris blushed. - How funny you are! - he said, bending over to her, blushing even more, but doing nothing and waiting. She suddenly jumped up on the tub so that she stood taller than him, hugged him with both arms so that her thin bare arms bent above his neck and, moving her hair back with a movement of her head, kissed him right on the lips. She slipped between the pots to the other side of the flowers and, lowering her head, stopped.

“Natasha,” he said, “you know that I love you, but...” “Are you in love with me?” – Natasha interrupted him.

- Yes, I’m in love, but please, let’s not do what we’re doing now... Four more years... Then I’ll ask for your hand. Natasha thought. “Thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen...” she said, counting on her slender fingers. - Fine! So it's over? And a smile of joy and peace lit up her lively face. - It's over! - said Boris. - Forever? - said the girl. - Until death? And, taking his arm, with a happy face she quietly walked next to him into the sofa.

Meanwhile, the guests began to leave.

Left alone with Countess Rostova, Anna Mikhailovna Drubetskaya complained to her friend about her poor financial situation, said that she had asked Prince Vasily to help settle her son, and expressed hope for the will of Count Kirill Vladimirovich Bezukhov. From the Rostovs, Anna Mikhailovna Drubetskaya, together with her son, who was Bezukhov’s godson, went to the house of the dying count. She had difficulty persuading her son to go with her, because Boris believed that this visit could bring nothing but humiliation.

In the living room of Count Bezukhov, the Drubetskys met Prince Vasily, who received them rather coldly, since he saw in Boris a rival for the inheritance of the dying count. Anna Mikhailovna inquired about the health of Count Bezukhov and thanked Prince Vasily for the help provided in getting her son into the service. She insisted on a meeting with Count Bezukhov, despite the fact that his condition was very serious. In the end, she was allowed into the chambers of the dying old man. Boris at this time went to Pierre.

Pierre never had time to choose a career for himself in St. Petersburg and, indeed, was exiled to Moscow for rioting. The story told by Count Rostov was true. Pierre participated in tying up the policeman with the bear. He arrived a few days ago and stayed, as always, at his father's house. Pierre was greeted as if he were dead or plagued...

Pierre's request to meet with his father was refused due to the patient's poor health. Boris Drubetskoy found Pierre in a depressed mood. Bezukhov did not recognize Boris, but despite this, he started talking to him about war and politics. However, Boris was not interested in these topics, and he turned the conversation to another topic - the illness of the old count, while also touching on the issue of inheritance. He said that in this situation everyone is only thinking about how to get at least something from the inheritance, but he and his mother are not one of these people. Even if they were given something, they still would not take anything. Surprised by this turn of the conversation, Pierre rushed to shake Boris’s hand. Saying goodbye to the young man he liked for his straightforwardness, Pierre promised to come to the Rostovs.

After their visit to the Bezukhovs, the Drubetskys went to the Rostovs’ house. During their absence, Countess Rostova asked her husband for money (“to sew a uniform for Boris”) to help her friend who was in a difficult situation.

In the evening there was a reception at the Rostovs' house. The men, secluded in the office, talked about the outbreak of war, declared by a manifesto that no one had yet seen. One of the speakers was Shinshin, cousin of Countess Rostova, the other was Berg, an officer of the Semenovsky regiment, with whom Boris was traveling with the regiment. The Count, who himself did not participate in the conversation, listened attentively to the guests.

Pierre arrived before dinner and awkwardly sat down in the first chair he came across. He was shy and rejected all attempts to get him to talk. Most of the guests, having heard about the scandalous story with the bear, looked at the young man with interest. Anna Mikhailovna tried to talk to him about her father, but Pierre answered in monosyllables, showing no particular desire to continue the conversation.

The sounds of the count's home music were replaced by the sounds of knives and forks, the conversation of guests, the quiet steps of waiters... Berg, with a gentle smile, spoke to Vera that love is not an earthly, but a heavenly feeling. Boris named his new friend Pierre the guests at the table and exchanged glances with Natasha, who was sitting opposite him. Pierre spoke little, looked at new faces and ate a lot. Natasha, sitting opposite him, looked at Boris the way thirteen-year-old girls look at a boy with whom they had just kissed for the first time and with whom they are in love. This same look of hers sometimes turned to Pierre, and under the gaze of this funny, lively girl he wanted to laugh himself, not knowing why.

At dinner, the men's end of the table talked about politics. Natasha, tired of the conversations of adults, behaved unexpectedly boldly and daringly.

Her face suddenly flushed, expressing desperate and cheerful determination. She stood up, inviting Pierre, who was sitting opposite her, to listen, and turned to her mother.

- Mother! – her childish voice sounded across the table.

- What do you want? – the countess asked in fear, but, seeing from her daughter’s face that it was a prank, she sternly waved her hand, making a threatening and negative gesture with her head.

The conversation died down.

- Mother! what kind of cake will it be? – Natasha’s voice sounded even more decisively, without breaking down...

- Here I am! - said the countess.

- Mother! what kind of cake will there be? - Natasha shouted boldly and capriciously cheerfully, confident in advance that her prank would be well received.

After dinner, the adults sat down to play cards, and the youth prepared to sing and dance. Julie sang first, then everyone began asking Natasha and Nikolai, known for their musicality, to sing. Natasha, noticing that her friend Sonya was not in the room, ran to look for her. Sonya lay in the corridor on a chest and cried. Natasha, upset by her grief, also cried bitterly. Having gathered her strength, Sonya told her friend the reason for her grief: Nikolai must go to the army in two weeks; Vera, having discovered poems written by Nikolai’s hand dedicated to Sonya, scolded her, called her ungrateful and assured that her father would never allow Nikolai to marry her, because he was her cousin. Natasha reassured her friend, and the two of them returned to the living room. At the request of the guests, the young people sang the “Key” quartet, after which Nikolai performed a song he had recently learned. Before he could finish singing, the music started playing and the youth got ready to dance.

When the music started playing, Natasha entered the living room and, going straight to Pierre, laughing and blushing, said:

- Mom told me to ask you to dance.

“I’m afraid of confusing the figures,” said Pierre, “but if you want to be my teacher...

And he offered his thick hand, lowering it low, to the thin girl.

While the couples were settling down and the musicians were lining up, Pierre sat down with his little lady. Natasha was completely happy; she danced with a big one, with someone who came from abroad. She sat in front of everyone and talked to him like a big girl. She had a fan in her hand, which one young lady had given her to hold. And, assuming the most secular pose (God knows where and when she learned this), she, fanning herself and smiling through the fan, spoke to her gentleman.

- What is it, what is it? Look, look,” said the old countess, passing through the hall and pointing at Natasha.

Natasha blushed and laughed.

- Well, what about you, mom? Well, what kind of hunt are you looking for? What's surprising here?

While the Rostovs were celebrating and the guests were dancing, Count Bezukhov had his sixth stroke. Doctors announced that there was no hope for recovery. There was a bustle in the house; they were preparing to perform the funeral service for the dying man. Prince Vasily went to the room of Katisha, the eldest of the three princesses, with a request to revise the will, according to which Pierre, the illegitimate son of the count, was to become the direct heir.

A carriage with Pierre (who was sent for) and Anna Mikhailovna (who found it necessary to go with him) drove into the courtyard of Count Bezukhy... Pierre followed Anna Mikhailovna out of the carriage and then only thought about the meeting with his dying father that awaited him ...

Anna Mikhailovna's face expressed the consciousness that the decisive moment had arrived; She, with the manner of a businesslike St. Petersburg lady, entered the room, not letting Pierre go, even bolder than in the morning. She felt that since she was leading the one whom the dying man wanted to see, her reception was guaranteed...

“Thank God we made it,” she said to the clergyman, “all of us, my family, were so afraid.” This young man is the count’s son,” she added more quietly. - A terrible moment!

Having uttered these words, she approached the doctor. Anna Mikhailovna raised her shoulders and eyes, almost closing them, sighed and walked away from the doctor to Pierre.

A few minutes later, Prince Vasily entered the room. Seeing Pierre, he approached him and took his hand. To Pierre's question about his father's health, Prince Vasily replied that half an hour ago he had another stroke. Pierre was invited to the dying man's room, where there were three princesses, one of whom (the eldest) could hardly restrain her anger. Entering the room, Pierre completely submitted to the will of Anna Mikhailovna. She motioned for him to come to his father's bed, kiss his hand and sit down on a chair that stood nearby. Following the princess’s instructions, Pierre painfully experienced the last moments of his father’s life. Count Bezukhov made it clear to those present that he should be turned over on his other side and forgotten. All those present, with the exception of one of the princesses, left the room. After some time, the door of the room where the dying man remained opened and the princess informed those present that the prince was dying.

The next morning after the death of Count Bezukhov, Anna Mikhailovna told Pierre that his father had promised not to forget Boris, but did not have time, and expressed the hope that his son would fulfill his father’s will. After a conversation with Pierre, Princess Drubetskaya left for the Rostovs. The next morning, she told them and everyone she knew the details of the count’s death, expressing admiration for the touching scene of the farewell of father and son.

In Bald Mountains, the estate of Prince Nikolai Andreevich Bolkonsky, the arrival of the young Prince Andrei and the princess was expected every day; but the wait did not disrupt the orderly order in which life went on in the old prince’s house. General-in-Chief Prince Nikolai Andreevich, from the time he was exiled to the village under Paul, lived constantly in his Bald Mountains with his daughter, Princess Marya, and her companion... He himself was involved in raising his daughter and, in order to develop both in her the main virtues, until the age of twenty he gave her lessons in algebra and geometry and distributed her whole life in continuous studies. He himself was constantly busy either writing his memoirs, or calculations from higher mathematics, or turning snuff boxes on a machine, or working in the garden and observing the buildings that did not stop on his estate... With the people surrounding him, from his daughter to the servants , the prince was harsh and invariably demanding, and therefore, without being cruel, he aroused fear and respect for himself, which the most cruel person could not easily achieve. Despite the fact that he was retired and now had no importance in state affairs, every head of the province where the prince’s estate was, considered it his duty to come to him and, just like an architect, gardener or Princess Marya, waited for the appointed hour of the prince's appearance in the high waiter's room.

Princess Marya prayed every day that her meeting with her father would go well. On this day, when she entered her father’s office, he was working at the machine. Taking his foot off the pedal, the prince called his daughter over and greeted him dryly. Before class, the old man handed her a letter from Julie Karagina, with whom Marya had been corresponding for a long time. Expressing dissatisfaction with the girls’ correspondence, the prince warned that he would miss two more letters, but would definitely read the third. Marya humbly invited him to read this letter too. But the prince shouted at her and began the lesson. Old Bolkonsky was a strict and unrestrained teacher, every now and then he started shouting and lost his temper.

After class, the princess impatiently opened the letter. From it she learned the latest secular news: all of Moscow was talking about the war; one of Julie’s brothers is already abroad, the other is in the guard, which is marching to the border. Nikolai Rostov left the university and entered the army; Pierre became the owner of a huge fortune, was recognized as the legitimate son (and therefore Count Bezukhov) and, accordingly, the most profitable groom; Prince Vasily played a nasty role in the inheritance story and was forced to leave for St. Petersburg. Julie also informed Princess Bolkonskaya that Anna Mikhailovna Sherer, known for her “skill” in arranging profitable marriages, wants to accommodate the son of Prince Vasily, the famous rake Anatole, by marrying him to a rich and noble girl. The choice fell on her, Princess Bolkonskaya. At the end of the letter, Julie asked Marie to inform her about Prince Bolkonsky and his wife.

1. About the first volume
2. Summary of parts and chapters
3. Results of the first volume

About the first volume of War and Peace

In the first volume, the reader is introduced to the main characters: Pierre Bezukhov, Andrei Bolkonsky, the Rostov family, Princess Marya. The reader is also given a description of the first military operations with France and a description of historical figures: Kutuzov, Bagration, Emperor Alexander the First, Napoleon.

The first part describes St. Petersburg society and talks about the attitude of civilians to the war. All the main characters are also brought onto the action stage and the following events important for the subsequent plot occur: the acquaintance of Pierre and Natasha, Prince Andrei’s departure to war, Bezukhov’s receipt of an inheritance.

The second part describes the military actions that took place in Austria: the defeat of Mack, the unification of Russian and Austrian troops, the capture of Vienna by the French and the heroic behavior of Bagration's vanguard.

The third part simultaneously tells about the lives of ordinary people who also experience important events and military actions, or rather, the battle of Austerlitz. This is done so that the reader understands that war and peace can exist not only in a military sense, but also means the struggle taking place in society itself.

Summary of Tolstoy War and Peace Volume 1 in parts and chapters

Part 1

Chapter 1

The year was 1805. The action of the novel begins in the house of the maid of honor Anna Pavlovna Sherer. Prince Vasily came to visit her. They talk about the war, discuss secular news and the prince’s children - two sons and a daughter. His daughter and eldest son are beautiful, well-mannered and liked by everyone without exception. And the youngest son, Anatole, apart from his beautiful appearance, does not have any other positive qualities. The prince is worried that he leads an idle life and spends a lot of money. Anna Pavlovna offers to match Anatoly with the daughter of Prince Bolkonsky, Princess Marya. Prince Vasily approves of this idea.

Chapter 2

At the evening at the maid of honor, a secular society gathered: Prince Vasily with his daughter Helen, his eldest son Hippolyte and his friend, the pregnant Princess Bolkonskaya (the wife of Marya Bolkonskaya’s brother), Abbot Moriot and others. A new face appears in society - Pierre Bezukhov, the illegitimate son of Catherine's nobleman. The hostess does not like this young man because she is afraid that he will begin to express out loud his thoughts that contradict the views of those around him. For Pierre, who came from abroad, this was the first party in Russia, and therefore, knowing that he was in an intelligent society, he tried to listen carefully to the conversations of the guests.

Chapter 3

All of Scherer’s guests were divided into groups based on their interests and discussed thoughts that interested them. The Viscount arrived for the evening, whom the hostess presented in the most favorable light. The guest began to entertain the audience with funny stories about political figures. Anna Pavlovna tried to keep an eye on all the guests so that their conversation did not become too serious. In the midst of the Viscount’s conversation, she notices that Bezukhov is animatedly talking about something with the Abbot. Hastening to them and changing the conversation to the topic of climate, the maid of honor joined them to the general circle.

Chapter 4

At this time, Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, Lisa’s husband, enters the living room. He was a handsome young man, but from his appearance one could guess that everyone present at the evening was bored with him, and especially his wife. It turns out that he is going to war with the French as Kutuzov’s adjutant. For Prince Andrei, Pierre's presence turns out to be a pleasant surprise. Prince Vasily and his beautiful daughter are about to leave society. As a farewell, he asks Anna Pavlovna to help Pierre get comfortable in society.

Chapter 5

The old princess Anna Mikhailovna Drubetskaya turns to Prince Vasily with a request: she asks to transfer her son Boris to the guards regiment. At this time, a dispute about Napoleon flared up between Bezukhov, Bolkonsky and the Viscount. Pierre, having secured the support of the prince, considers Bonaparte a hero. Prince Hippolyte ends the dispute with his anecdote, which he was unable to tell in such a way that his listeners understood it.

Chapter 6

The guests began to leave. Anna Pavlovna said goodbye to Bezukhov, then to Liza Bolkonskaya, asking her to talk about the matchmaking of Anatoly and Princess Marya. Hippolyte helped the little princess, whom he liked, get ready. Prince Bolkonsky hurried his wife and invited Pierre to come to them. In the Bolkonskys’ house, sitting in the prince’s office, Andrei and Bezukhov began to discuss what the latter intended to do and the conversation turned to a military topic. It turns out that the prince does not like the life he is leading now and this is one of the reasons why he is going to war.

Chapter 7

The prince's wife enters the office. Having learned that they are discussing her husband's departure to war, Lisa begins to say that she does not understand the reasons why he wants to leave her alone and send her to a village where she has no friends and will not be able to attend social evenings. The husband asks her to calm down, and the princess, wishing them good night, leaves.

Chapter 8

After dinner, Andrei confesses to his friend that he is unhappy in his marriage and advises him to get married as late as possible. It turns out that the young people have known each other for a long time and are friends. Bezukhov admires Bolkonsky’s willpower and lack of daydreaming. The prince asks him to stop being in the company of Anatole Kuragin, the youngest son of Prince Vasily, in whose house Pierre lives, because he is a very frivolous young man. The young man gives the floor to his friend.

Chapter 9

Pierre, having left the Bolkonskys late at night, despite the promise given to the prince, decides to go to Anatole. He had a large company, in which everyone drank and ate a lot. Bezukhov, who arrived, was forced to drink too. A certain Dolokhov drinks a whole bottle of alcohol on a bet, standing on the ledge of the wall outside the window. Having decided to continue the festivities, the whole company is going to go to someone, taking with them the bear that was in the room.

Chapter 10

Some time passes. Prince Vasily Kuragin fulfilled Drubetskaya’s request and her son Boris was transferred to the Semenovsky Guard Regiment. The princess comes to her relatives in Rostov. The Rostovs are a large family: Count Ilya, his wife Natalya, their children Nikolai, Natasha, Vera, Petya and their orphaned niece Sonya. The Countess and her daughter Natasha have a name day. There are many guests who are very tired of the princess. Tired of visitors, she decides to receive the last guest - Princess Karagina and her daughter.

The guest talks about the latest St. Petersburg gossip, as well as about the drunken antics of Anatoly Kuragin, Dolokhov and Pierre Bezukhov. This trick amused Count Rostov and the rest of the listeners too.

Chapter 11

At this time, the younger generation runs into the room: Natasha Rostova, who was 13 years old, her brother Nikolai, a student, the youngest, Petya Rostov, Sonya, 15 years old, and Boris Drubetskoy, a young officer. They were all enlivened by the fun play with Natasha's doll, Mimi. Nikolai and Boris are best friends. True, Drubetskoy is more sociable than his friend. Boris goes to prepare the carriage for his departure with his mother.

Chapter 12

This chapter talks about the relationships between children. Nikolai Rostov and Sonya are in love with each other, as are Natasha and Boris. Sonya was jealous of Nikolai's Jury Rostova, with whom he communicated nicely only out of politeness. A brief description is given of the Rostovs' eldest daughter, Vera, who was disliked and misunderstood in the family, although she was not stupid. After sitting a little longer, the guests leave.

Chapter 13

Nikolai finds Sonya, who is offended by him, and asks her for forgiveness. The girl forgives the young man and they kiss. Seeing this, Natasha calls Boris and kisses him too. Drubetskoy promises to ask for her hand in 4 years. Natasha is happy.

Chapter 14

Vera was disliked by everyone in the family, even her brothers and sisters. When the Countess asked her to go to the children, the girl saw that they were in pairs. She did not understand their childhood love and talked down to them. Natasha says that they know that she is in love with Officer Berg. And the couples who are offended by her go to the nursery.

Countess Rostova and Princess Drubetskaya are talking. Natalya Rostova praises her friend for taking care of her son. Anna Mikhailovna is worried that she will not have enough money to outfit Boris, and so she decides to go with him to his godfather, Count Bezukhov, who was dying. She hopes that he will bequeath something to the young man. Count Rostov, having learned where they were leaving, asked to convey the invitation to dinner to the count’s illegitimate son, Pierre Bezukhov.

Chapter 15

Drubetskaya and her son went to Count Bezukhov. She asks Boris to be attentive to his godfather. Although the young man does not like this pretense, for the sake of his mother he agrees. At Count Bezukhov's they meet Prince Vasily, who is his relative. Anna Mikhailovna thanks Kuragin for the help provided and asks about the count’s well-being. She sends Boris to Pierre so that he conveys the invitation from the Rostovs.

Chapter 16

Pierre Bezukhov did not immediately recognize Boris. He decided that it was Ilya Rostov, but as it turned out later, he got everything mixed up: after all, his son’s name was Nikolai. Young Drubetskoy tells Bezukhov that he does not need his father’s money, and this statement made Pierre like him even more. He promised that he would come to the Rostovs in order to get to know Boris better. The princess was unable to talk to the count because he did not recognize anyone. She hopes that he will mention them in his will and for this she is going to come again.

Chapter 17

Countess Rostova was worried that her friend from her youth had to beg for money. She asks her husband to give her 500 rubles. Count Rostov, seeing how upset she is, instructs his servant Mitenka, who was in charge of all his affairs, to bring 700 rubles. When Anna Mikhailovna returns and says that she was unable to talk with Count Bezukhov, Natalya Rostova asks her to accept these 700 rubles. Hugging, both friends cry tears of joy.

Chapter 18

Guests begin to arrive for the holiday. Before the meal, the company was divided into two parts: the male part, which talked in the count’s office, and the female part, which settled down in the living room. In the male society, the conversation was on a military topic, in particular, about the manifesto. Officer Berg, with whom Vera was in love, boasted about his promotion.

Pierre Bezukhov arrived later and Countess Rostova and Princess Drubetskaya tried to start a conversation with him. But because of his shyness, he answered them in monosyllables. Natasha Rostova's godmother, Princess Marya Dmitrievna Akhrosimova, arrives, whom everyone feared and respected for her straightforwardness and rude manners. She gave the little birthday girl earrings and scolded Pierre for his scandalous behavior.

At the table, the guests were also divided into male and female parts. Sonya was jealous of Nikolai Rostov for Julie Karagina. Berg spoke about his love to Vera, Boris called those sitting at the table to Pierre, and exchanged glances with Natasha. Pierre, for the most part, ate and drank a lot.

Chapter 19

At the table, a dispute about Bonaparte flared up; the loudest arguments were between Shinshin, a relative of the countess, and the colonel. Their argument is interrupted by young Natasha’s question about what kind of cake will be served. But no one was angry with the girl for this prank.

Chapter 20

The dancing has begun. During the break between them, Natasha reassured Sonya, who was jealous of Nikolai for Julie and was worried that Vera would tell everything to the Countess. Young Rostova calmed the girl down and said that Pierre was very funny. Then the girl invited him to dance. After the dancing, the youth began to sing, and after singing, the count began to dance with Princess Akhrosimova, whose dance delighted the guests.

Chapter 21

Count Bezukhov is getting worse. According to the doctor's forecasts, he could die any day now. Prince Vasily begins to worry about his share of the inheritance and decides to consult with one of the count's direct heirs, Princess Ekaterina Mamontova. It becomes known that Bezukhov wrote a petition to the sovereign for Pierre to be recognized as his legitimate son. If this turned out to be true, then the entire inheritance would go to him. Mamontova tells the prince where all the count’s documents are and accuses Drubetskaya of turning Bezukhov against the Mamontov sisters.

Chapter 22

Anna Mikhailovna comes with Pierre to his father. Passing by the princesses' chambers, they see that Vasily Kuragin and Princess Mamontova are very alarmed about something. Drubetskaya tells Bezukhov not to worry about anything, that she will respect his interests. Pierre doesn’t understand anything, but decides to listen to her.

Chapter 23

The unction of Count Bezukhov began. All the relatives and servants of the count gathered. After the ceremony ended, Drubetskaya brought Pierre to his father so that they could say goodbye. The young man was horrified by the state his father was in and was very saddened by it. When Bezukhov Sr. fell asleep, Anna Mikhailovna and Pierre left the count’s chambers.

Chapter 24

A scandal breaks out, in which Princess Katerina Mamontova, Princess Drubetskaya and Prince Vasily take part. Anna Mikhailovna is trying to take the briefcase from the princess, which contains all the count’s papers. In the midst of the struggle they are informed that the count has died. Princess Katerina is angry with Pierre because she understands that the entire inheritance will go to him. Prince Vasily suddenly realizes that he has already become old and is crying. Pierre spends the night at his father's bed in upset feelings. Princess Drubetskaya returns to the Rostovs and tells all the details of what happened.

Chapter 25

The reader is introduced to Nikolai Andreevich Bolkonsky, the father of Prince Andrei Bolkonsky. He, together with his daughter Marya, lives on an estate located in Lysy Gorki. Everyone knows him as a demanding and strict person, even towards his daughter. In his house, everyone lives according to an established routine, and the old prince himself teaches Marya.

The prince gives her a letter written by her friend, Julie Karagina. In the letter, the girl says that in Moscow all they talk about is the upcoming war. Julie is so concerned about this topic also because Nikolai Rostov, with whom she is in love, volunteered. She also says that the heir to Count Bezukhov’s entire fortune was his son Pierre, who was recognized as legitimate. The girl doesn’t like him and she writes that now everyone is trying to marry their daughters to him. The friend also warns the princess that she is considered a profitable match for Prince Vasily’s son, Anatoly. The letter ends with a request to convey news about Andrei Bolkonsky and his wife.

Princess Marya writes a response letter in which she sympathizes with Pierre and does not agree with Julie's opinion of him. For Princess Bolkonskaya, the most important quality in his character is his kind heart. She says that she heard that Prince Vasily is going to come to them, and if her father decides that she needs to marry Anatole, then she will submit to his will. About her brother, Bolkonskaya writes that he and his wife are expected to arrive soon, but he himself will go to war.

The princess realizes that because of the letter, she starts playing the clavichord later than usual.

Chapter 26

Unexpectedly, Andrei Bolkonsky arrives with Lisa. Mademoiselle Bourien is very happy to see them. They take Princess Marya by surprise, who is very happy to see her brother and his wife. Lisa and Marya hug and cry, then the little princess begins to tell the latest news from her life. Princess Marya asks Andrei when he is going to go to war and receives the answer that the very next day. Brother and sister are very happy to see each other after separation, and, waiting for their father to wake up, Prince Andrei hurried to him.

For the sake of his son’s arrival, Bolkonsky Sr. made an exception to his daily routine and allowed him to be present at his toilet. Prince Andrei was very glad to see his father and communicated with him in the same way as with Pierre. Nikolai Bolkonsky asks him to tell him about the latest military news, but he does not listen attentively to his son. Increasingly inspired, Andrei conveys all the news to his father, who has already heard it. Having finished getting ready, he tells the young prince to go to the dining room.

Chapter 27

All the household and the architect, Mikhail Ivanovich, who, for unknown reasons, was invited by the prince, gathered at dinner. Andrei, looking at his father’s portrait, expressed the opinion that even the smartest person has his weaknesses. Princess Marya did not support her brother - for her, her father always did everything right.

At dinner, Nikolai Bolkonsky talked with the little princess, who was afraid of him. In a conversation with her father-in-law, she recounted a lot of secular gossip, which the old prince did not like. During conversations, a dispute arose between father and son over the assessment of Napoleon's actions. Prince Andrei considered him an excellent commander, Nikolai Andreevich had a different opinion. He believed that the French ruler was simply lucky. Bolkonsky Jr. was surprised that although his father did not leave his village, he was well aware of the state of affairs of European countries.

Lunch ended, but father and son each remained to their own opinion. The princess, who did not take part in the dispute, confidentially told Marya that the prince was very smart and therefore she was afraid of him. For the young princess, her father was always kind.

Chapter 28

The next day, Andrei Bolkonsky gets ready to hit the road. Princess Marya approaches him to talk before leaving. She asks him not to be too strict with Lisa, to which her brother honestly admits to her that neither he nor his wife are happy in their marriage. The princess was very religious and asked the prince to take the icon with him. Andrey, realizing that it is very important for his sister, promises not to take it off. He asks if it’s hard for her to live with her father, to which Marya replies that she is happy with everything.

On the way to the old prince's office, he sees Mademoiselle Burien, whom he does not like. While saying goodbye to his father, Andrei asks to take care of his wife and son. The old prince promises to fulfill his request, gives him a letter of recommendation, and so that Andrei does not see his worries, he rushes his departure. While saying goodbye to her husband, the princess faints. Prince Nikolai comes out only after his son has left and, seeing the princess unconscious, goes into his office.

Part 2

Chapter 1

It was October 1805. Kutuzov was offered to unite his army with the army of Archduke Ferdinand and Mack. The Russian commander did not consider this idea successful, so he decided to inspect the detachment that arrived at the Braunau fortress to show that the Russian army was not yet ready.

Chapter 2

Kutuzov comes to review the regiment, whose retinue includes Bolkonsky, Nesvitsky, Andrei’s friend and cornet Zherkov, who turns out to be an old acquaintance of Dolokhov. The demoted Dolokhov serves in the regiment being inspected; Bolkonsky reminds Kutuzov of him and his epaulettes are returned.

Chapter 3

Kutuzov tried to explain to the Austrian general that Austrian soldiers could cope without the help of the Russians. He asks Prince Bolkonsky to draw up a paper describing the reasons why the Russian army cannot move forward. Andrei Bolkonsky changed while in the army: he became lively and showed great hope for a military career. At this time, the famous Mack comes to the Russian commander-in-chief, who confirms the rumors about the defeat of the Austrian army. It becomes obvious that a clash between the Russians and the French cannot be avoided. Prince Andrei, understanding the seriousness of the current situation, is in joyful excitement that he will be able to take part in hostilities.

Chapter 4

Nikolai Rostov ended up in the Pavlograd Hussar Regiment, in which he serves as a cadet. The young man lives in an apartment with captain Denisov. This chapter tells how Warmister Velyatin stole the captain's wallet, but Rostov caught him in this, but, having condemned him morally, left him the money.

Chapter 5

At Denisov’s apartment, in a conversation between officers, Rostov talks about Telyanin and the regimental commander reprimands him. Nikolai wants to receive satisfaction for the insult inflicted on him, but the headquarters captain and Denisov convince the young man that he is wrong and Rostov apologizes. At this time, Zherkov comes to them and tells them the news about the defeat of the Austrian army and tells them to prepare for the offensive.

Chapters 6 - 7

Kutuzov retreated to Vienna, ordering the destruction of the bridges behind the army. Nesvitsky was sent as commander-in-chief. After a short rest, he goes to the crossing to hurry up those lagging behind and ensure the destruction of the bridge. The shelling of the crossing begins. At this time Denisov appears and demands that he be allowed to pass with his squadron.

Chapter 8

There was a stampede on the bridge. Nesvitsky mixed up the order, but Zherkov arrived and handed over the necessary instructions to the colonel. These two officers watched what was happening away from the shots. Denisov's squadron was supposed to set the bridge on fire. During the grapeshot, the first wounded appeared. Nikolai Rostov tried to behave courageously, but then he found himself among those soldiers who ran after the hussars. After this, the young man began to consider himself a coward. The Russians were able to set fire to the bridge before the French.

Chapter 9

On October 28, Kutuzov and his army crossed to the left bank of the Danube, and on the 30th he defeated Mortier’s division. And even though this victory was overshadowed by the losses of soldiers and wounded, it raised the morale of the troops. Rumors began to circulate in the army about Bonaparte's retreat. Prince Andrei took part in military operations and coped with all the affairs that Kutuzov entrusted to him. The commander-in-chief sent him with the news of this victory to the Austrian court.

Chapter 10

Prince Bolkonsky stopped at his acquaintance, the Russian diplomat Bilibin, and told him about the cool reception. Bilibin replies that there is nothing surprising, because this is a victory for the Russian army, not the Austrian. Prince Andrei learns that Vienna has been taken by the French and that the majority believes that this campaign is lost. Bolkonsky fell asleep, thinking about the reception awaiting him from the emperor.

Chapters 11-12

In the company of Bilibin, Prince Andrei met Ippolit Kuragin, whom he was once jealous of his wife. Bilibin promises to show Bolkonsky all the delights of Brunn. The prince tells the emperor all the details of the battle and he is awarded the Order of Maria Theresa, 3rd degree. Returning to the diplomat, he sees that he is packing his things and learns that the French have crossed the bridge in Vienna and will soon be on the banks of the Danube. Prince Andrei hurries to warn the Russian army.

Chapter 13

Prince Bolkonsky has difficulty finding the army and Kutuzov. Having gone to the commander-in-chief, he learns that orders for battle have been given. Kutuzov sends Bagration's vanguard to hold back the French and bids farewell to him with tears in his eyes. Bolkonsky asks to join Bagration’s vanguard, but Kutuzov does not let him in.

Chapter 14

The French sought to interrupt the connection between the troops of Kutuzov and Russia. To prevent this, an avant-garde led by Bagration was sent. Murat decided that the small detachment was the entire Russian army, and proposed a truce for three days to wait for reinforcements from Vienna. For Kutuzov, this was the only opportunity to give Bagration’s detachment a rest. Napoleon figured out the commander-in-chief's trick and wrote to Murat about it, and he himself went with his army.

Chapters 15-16

Kutuzov still allows Bolkonsky to go to Bagration. Arriving there, Andrei sees that everything is calm, because Murat has not yet received Bonaparte’s letter. The prince meets Captain Tushin and develops sympathy for him. Later, he meets again with the captain, passing through the battery, who was busy drawing the disposition of the French troops in his notebook. At this time, a cannonball falls into the center of the booth set up by the soldiers.

Chapters 17-18

Murat, having learned that he had been deceived, decided to rehabilitate himself in the eyes of Napoleon and destroy the small army before his arrival and opens fire. At this time, Bagration and Bolkonsky travel around the entire avant-garde. Tushin, without waiting for orders, decided to set fire to the village. Prince Bagration gives the order to Zherkov to go to the left flank and say that they need to retreat. After some time, surrounded by gunpowder and smoke, Bagration shouted “Hurray!” launched an attack, which was able to ensure the retreat of the right flank.

Chapter 19

Thanks to the actions of Tushin's battery, the right flank retreats - the French are distracted by the fire in Shengraben. Zherkov did not convey Bagration’s order because he became scared. At this time, the commanders of the left and right flanks argue among themselves. The squadron that Rostov was in was surrounded by the French. After Denisov’s command, the attack began. A horse was wounded near Nikolai and, falling to the ground, instead of shooting at his enemies, he threw a pistol at the Frenchman and ran. The Frenchman wounded him in the arm, but Rostov runs to the bushes where the Russian riflemen were.

Chapter 20

The battle was not in our favor. But everything was changed by Timokhin’s company, which suddenly attacked the French from behind the forest. Dolokhov served in the same company, who distinguished himself by capturing two French officers and, despite being wounded, remained at the front. They remembered about the Tushino battery only when the cover left in the midst of the battle. However, thanks to the energetic leadership of Tushin, active shooting was carried out from his battery, because of which the French decided that this was where the main enemy forces were located. Because of his awakened excitement, Tushin did not immediately understand that he had been ordered to retreat several times. Only when Bolkonsky arrived and helped take Tushin’s guns away did the battery retreat. Then Andrey left.

Chapter 21

On the way, Tushin helps a young shell-shocked officer - it was Rostov. Upon arrival in the village, the captain is summoned by Bagration. The prince asks Tushin why he left two guns, to which he replies that there were not enough people so as not to say that the cover left the battery in the midst of the battle. Bolkonsky helps him out, telling him how everything happened to Bagration. Tushin sincerely thanks Andrey. Meanwhile, Rostov begins to feel delirious and feverish. The next day, the rest of Bagration's vanguard joins Kutuzov's army.

Part 3

Chapter 1

Prince Vasily becomes close to Pierre and, for the sake of profit, wants to marry him to his daughter. After receiving the inheritance, everyone in society suddenly began to treat him very well. Vasily Kuragin decides to transport Bezukhov to Moscow. The young count convinces himself that he is in love with Helen, although she seems stupid to him.

Chapter 2

Pierre Bezukhov still can’t decide to propose to Helen Kuragina. After celebrating her name day, when all the guests have left, Prince Vasily helps Bezukhov propose to his daughter. Helen accepts him and after some time they get married.

Chapter 3

Prince Vasily, together with Anatole, is going to see Prince Bolkonsky. This news does not please the old prince, because he despised Prince Kuragin. On the day of their arrival, he was out of sorts and everyone fell under his hot hand, even the little princess, who was very afraid of him. Mademoiselle Burien and Lisa are trying to put the princess in order, who was not very beautiful externally, but had inner beauty. Princess Marya doubted whether she should agree to marry someone she didn’t love, but she was ashamed of such thoughts.

Chapters 4-5

The princess goes downstairs and meets the Kuragins. She tries to be nice to everyone, but her father begins to make comments about his daughter's appearance, which upsets her. Sympathy arises between Anatole and Burien. The next day, Prince Bolkonsky tells his daughter that she will have to decide for herself whether to marry Anatole or not. The princess promises to think about it. Leaving her father's office, she sees a French woman in Anatole's arms. Later she calms her down and tells her that she is not angry. Marya informs her father and Prince Vasily that she will not marry Anatole. The princess decides that self-sacrifice is the meaning of her happiness.

Chapter 6

There was no news from Nikolai in the Rostov house for a long time. A letter arrives informing him that he was wounded, but there is no need to fear for his life and he has been promoted to officer. Soon the whole house knew about Nikolai and everyone began to write him a letter, which was supposed to be conveyed through Boris Drubetsky.

Chapter 7

The letter reached Nicholas when a review was to take place between the two emperors, Russian and Austrian. He needed to get to Boris, who had a letter. Boris served with Berg and the meeting of old friends was warm. They exchanged war stories, and at the moment when Rostov was talking about his wound, Bolkonsky entered, who was favorable towards Boris. Nikolai and Andrei did not like each other and Rostov almost challenged him to a duel. But the prince was able to take the conversation in a different direction and left.

Chapter 8

The next day, the Russian and Austrian troops were reviewed by the emperors. Nicholas was ready to die for the emperor, he was in such admiration that even Bolkonsky, who was in his retinue, did not spoil his mood. After the review, everyone was confident of victory.

Chapter 9

Boris decides to ask Prince Andrei for help in promoting his career. Bolkonsky promises to arrange him for Prince Dolgoruky, but does not have time, so Drubetsky’s promotion is postponed. The next day they set out on a campaign, and Boris remained in the Izmailovsky regiment until the Battle of Austerlitz.

Chapters 10-11

The city of Wischau was occupied and a French squadron was captured. Rostov saw the sovereign and began to admire him even more. Emperor Alexander was very worried when he saw the wounded, which exalted him even more in the eyes of Nicholas. A French envoy comes to the Russian emperor and offers a personal meeting with Napoleon. The Emperor refuses and transfers the matter to Dolgoruky. The French troops were retreating and everyone was waiting for a decisive battle. Bolkonsky had a plan for a flank battle, which he tried to tell to Dolgoruky, but he advised him to show it to Kutuzov. At the military council, Kutuzov listens to almost nothing about the plan, because the most important thing is to get enough sleep. Andrei begins to think that he might die during the battle and thinks about his life.

Chapters 12-17

These chapters tell the story of the battle. Napoleon moved his main forces to Kutuzov's column. Kutuzov himself was irritable because he did not like how the battle plan was being carried out. He ordered a retreat and only Prince Bolkonsky remained next to him. The French began to fire at the fleeing battery, and they shot at Kutuzov. Bolkonsky picked up the fallen banner and, shouting “Hurray,” rushed to the battery, but fell from a blow to the head, and he saw nothing else except the sky.

Chapter 18

Rostov is sent on an errand to the commander-in-chief. On the way, he hears shots - the Russians and Austrians are shooting at each other. He is looking for Kutuzov, but they tell him that he was killed. Rostov sees the sovereign, but understands that he is too tired and does not give him the order.

Chapter 19

The battle is lost. Napoleon drives up to the bleeding Bolkonsky and orders him to be taken care of. The prince ended up in the hospital, where the icon of Princess Mary was returned to him. He suffers from delirium and fever. He finds himself among the hopelessly ill, who were left in the care of the residents.

Results of the first volume

At the end of the first volume, it tells how wealth changed the life of one of the main characters, Pierre Bezukhov, that because of his inexperience, he connected his life with a woman whom he considered stupid. The character of Princess Marya is fully revealed as not just a girl who grew up away from society, but as selfless and very kind towards others.

Other characters - Prince Bolkonsky, Nikolai Rostov and Boris Drubetskoy have changed. Finding themselves in the thick of military events, they begin to value life itself and the Fatherland more. The description of the battles shows the reader how difficult it was to fight Napoleon, but nevertheless, Russian soldiers selflessly fought for their Fatherland.

In the first volume, the author shows that, despite the fact that there is a war, the lives of civilians go on as usual: they also make important decisions for their lives, such as Princess Marya, who, having refused to marry Anatole, realized that her happiness is self-sacrifice. After all, regardless of whether there is a war or a peaceful life, people continue to love, worry, care and make choices in matters that concern them, and a rethinking of life values and the development of the characters’ characters can occur.

Summary of Aldanov Devil's Bridge

Summary Plato Apology of Socrates

“The Apology of Socrates” consists of three speeches in defense at the trial, at the end of which Socrates was sentenced to death or expulsion from the polis. Socrates preferred death because, firstly, in the field of death he hoped to find understanding among the gods,

Summary of Platonov Still a mother

In his work Another Mother, Andrei Platonov wrote about a little boy, seven-year-old Artyom, who went to school for the first time. The story begins with a dialogue between little Artyom and his mother, Evdokia Alekseevna.