Zum Inhalt springen
The Library
of Alexandria
AnmeldenTry 3 months free3 months free

War and Peace, Book 5: 1806–07, Chapter 19 summary

Book 5: 1806–07, Chapter 19 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 19, Rostóv reaches Tilsit seeking help with Denísov’s petition and finds Borís entertaining French officers, whom he still regards as enemies. Borís strengthens his court connections through the emperors’ meeting, but his cautious response to Rostóv’s request exposes the distance between their priorities and strains their friendship.

What happens

  1. Rostóv reports on Denísov’s affairs to his regimental commander and rides to Tilsit with a letter for the Emperor.
  2. Borís secures a place at Tilsit, watches the emperors meet, and records details while strengthening his position at court.
  3. Count Zhilínski hosts French guests at their shared lodgings, where Rostóv arrives in civilian clothes.
  4. Rostóv resents the French officers and feels unwelcome despite Borís’ polite introductions.
  5. In private, Rostóv asks Borís to use his general’s influence to submit Denísov’s petition to the Emperor.
  6. Borís advises caution and offers limited help; Rostóv refuses supper and paces alone while French conversation continues nearby.

Free for 3 months

Get the full summary of Krieg und Frieden, free

  • 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
  • Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Starten Sie 90 Tage kostenlosNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.

What to notice

Rostóv interprets Borís’ caution as unwillingness to help. His outburst makes their conflicting priorities explicit.

Quick check

What does Borís initially recommend for Denísov’s case?

Free for 3 months

Get the full summary of Krieg und Frieden, free

  • 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
  • Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Starten Sie 90 Tage kostenlosNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold

15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.

Try 3 months free