War and Peace, Book 15: 1812–13, Chapter 6 summary
Book 15: 1812–13, Chapter 6 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 6, Kutúzov travels from Krásnoe to Dóbroe, sees the misery of captured French soldiers, and thanks his troops for their service. His formal address becomes a personal appeal for endurance and compassion, bringing victory and pity together in a speech that draws joyful cheers and leaves him deeply moved.
What happens
- Confused orders give way to news that the enemy is fleeing, and Kutúzov rides from Krásnoe to Dóbroe.
- He studies frostbitten French prisoners, including two men tearing at raw meat, and notices a Russian soldier treating a prisoner warmly.
- Before the Preobrazhénsk regiment, Kutúzov thanks the troops and declares their victory complete.
- His tone becomes personal as he urges endurance and reminds the soldiers that their defeated enemies are human.
- A sudden curse against the invaders brings laughter and cheers as he gallops away.
- When a general asks about his carriage, Kutúzov unexpectedly sobs.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Kutúzov distinguishes fighting a powerful enemy from treating defeated people with compassion. The remark joins his celebration of victory to his concern for the prisoners.
Quick check
What does Kutúzov urge his soldiers to recognize about the French prisoners?
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