Anna Karenina, Part 7, Chapter 4 summary

What happens

1. Levin visits Lvov, and their discussion moves from politics and scientific meetings to the demands of educating children.
2. Lvov admits gaps in his own learning, while Levin praises his boys and their character.
3. Lvov argues that religious support is essential for fathers, but Natalia Alexandrovna interrupts before the discussion continues.
4. The family arranges transport for official business, a concert, a committee meeting, and dinner with Kitty.
5. The boys and Mahotin arrive, and social conversation distracts Levin from his errand.
6. At departure, Levin remembers Kitty's request about Oblonsky; Lvov questions intervening, while Natalia offers to approach him.

In this chapter

What to notice

Natalia Alexandrovna’s warning counters Lvov's anxiety about his children's faults. It introduces a limit to his demanding view of parental duty.

Quick check