Who Prince Andrei Bolkonsky is
Prince Andrei Bolkonsky moves through Russian noble society with intelligence, pride and a growing impatience with its empty talk. At Anna Pavlovna Scherer's party, he appears bored and finds an honest companion in the awkward Pierre Bezukhov. He is married to Lise, who is expecting a child, but he wants to escape his home life.
What Prince Andrei Bolkonsky wants
Andrei joins the staff of General Kutuzov, hoping that a brilliant deed will bring him fame. He believes that one clever man, acting on a clear plan, can change the course of a battle.
How Prince Andrei Bolkonsky changes
At Austerlitz, Andrei charges forward carrying a flag, but he is struck down on the battlefield. Lying beneath a calm sky, he begins to see his dreams of glory as small. He returns to the country weary and changed, though this experience does not transform him all at once.
Prince Andrei Bolkonsky and the others in the story
Pierre's belief in a higher life challenges Andrei's wish to live only for himself and his family. Natasha Rostova also awakens feelings he has kept guarded, beginning with their dance at her first ball. Their hope of marriage meets resistance when Andrei's stern father insists on a year of waiting.
Questions
Why does Prince Andrei join the army?
He seeks military glory and purpose, while also wanting distance from society and his home life.
How are Prince Andrei and Pierre connected?
They are friends whose different views of life lead to searching conversations. Andrei values Pierre's honesty despite his awkward manners.
Who is Prince Andrei's sister?
His sister is Princess Marya Bolkonskaya, who is gentle, devout and patient with their father's harsh temper.