Anna Karenina, Part 6, Chapter 23 summary
Part 6, Chapter 23 of 239 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 23, Anna talks privately with Dolly about her uncertain position with Count Vronsky, while Dolly urges divorce and marriage to secure the family’s legal standing. Anna’s declaration that she intends to have no more children leads to arguments about love, suffering, and motherhood, leaving Dolly feeling deeply separated from her.
What happens
- Anna visits Dolly before bed, asks about Kitty, and struggles to begin the intimate conversation she has promised.
- Anna describes her fear of being alone when Alexey leaves home, and Dolly raises the possibility of divorce and marriage.
- Dolly explains his wish for legal family ties, but Anna says she intends to have no more children.
- Anna defends avoiding pregnancy as a way to preserve her companionship with Alexey and prevent children’s suffering.
- Dolly questions these arguments, thinks of her own children, and feels a barrier between herself and Anna.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Anna sees affection as uncertain rather than guaranteed. This fear helps explain her concern about pregnancy and her dependence on remaining attractive.
Quick check
Why does Dolly bring up divorce?
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