War and Peace, Book 4: 1806, Chapter 4 summary

What happens

1. At dinner, Pierre broods over his cousin’s hints and an anonymous letter alleging an affair between Hélène and Dólokhov.
2. Rostóv resents Pierre’s distraction, while Dólokhov directs a provocative toast toward him.
3. When Dólokhov snatches his copy of a cantata, Pierre calls him a scoundrel and challenges him.
4. Rostóv and Nesvítski arrange the duel; Dólokhov tells Rostóv that success requires a firm intention to kill.
5. At Sokólniki the next morning, Pierre questions the duel but rejects Nesvítski’s attempt at reconciliation, while Dólokhov also refuses apologies.
6. The men take their positions in a snowy clearing, and everyone waits silently.

In this chapter

What to notice

Pierre submits to the duel’s procedures despite doubting its purpose. His request also exposes his dependence on others in an unfamiliar situation.

Quick check