The Possessed, Part 3, Chapter 4 summary
Part 3, Chapter 4 of 23 · 36 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Pyotr Stepanovitch uses claims of imminent betrayal to secure the quintet’s agreement to kill Shatov and make Kirillov accept responsibility. His authority falters when Fedka strikes him, but Fedka’s reported death frightens Liputin into abandoning his escape preparations and attending the appointed meeting.
What happens
- Pyotr Stepanovitch damages Yulia Mihailovna’s reputation and reacts with alarm to news of Stavrogin’s departure.
- The quintet challenges his leadership, but he accuses its members of unauthorized arson and claims Shatov threatens to expose them.
- He proposes luring Shatov out through the buried printing press and using Kirillov’s promised suicide note to conceal responsibility.
- Kirillov confirms his promise, while Fedka rejects Pyotr Stepanovitch’s orders, strikes him unconscious, and leaves.
- Pyotr Stepanovitch predicts Fedka’s death, and Liputin returns home intending to escape abroad.
- News that Fedka lies murdered destroys Liputin’s resolve, and he arrives first for the meeting with Shatov.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Kirillov identifies how Pyotr Stepanovitch exploits his suicide agreement. The question exposes the attempt to transfer blame rather than accept responsibility.
Quick check
What finally makes Liputin abandon his immediate escape preparations?
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