Anna Karenina, Part 4, Chapter 19 summary

What happens

1. Alexey Alexandrovitch reflects on the peace forgiveness brings and grows deeply attached to his wife’s baby.
2. He senses social pressure around him and notices Anna’s fear and discomfort in his presence.
3. When the baby falls ill, the governess suggests hunger, and Alexey Alexandrovitch orders an examination of the wet nurse.
4. He overhears Betsy urging Anna to say goodbye to the man who shoots himself because of her.
5. Anna tells her husband about Vronsky’s proposed visit and insists that she does not want to receive him.
6. Betsy privately urges Alexey Alexandrovitch to allow the meeting, but he says his wife must choose.

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What to notice

Alexey Alexandrovitch leaves the decision about Vronsky’s visit to Anna. Yet his immediate shame shows how little protection this dignified answer gives him against perceived ridicule.

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