War and Peace, Book 10: 1812, Chapter 25 summary
Book 10: 1812, Chapter 25 of 365 · 12 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 25, Prince Andrew tells Pierre that soldiers’ determination matters more than military plans, while his anger over the invasion drives him to reject mercy toward enemies. Pierre gains a new understanding of the army’s patriotism, and after their troubled farewell Andrew struggles with memories of Natásha and his lost happiness.
What happens
- Over tea with officers, Andrew defends Barclay de Tolly’s honesty but argues that he cannot meet Russia’s present needs.
- Andrew rejects comparisons between warfare and chess, insisting that soldiers’ resolve decides battles rather than staff plans.
- Hearing Wolzogen and Clausewitz discount civilian losses sharpens Andrew’s anger over the invasion and his family’s suffering.
- Andrew demands that enemies receive no quarter, while condemning warfare’s violence and the honors granted to soldiers.
- Pierre understands the soldiers’ patriotism, accepts Andrew’s farewell, and rides to Górki believing they cannot meet again.
- Unable to sleep, Andrew remembers Natásha’s openness and then paces in anguish over the man connected with his lost love.
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According to Andrew, what chiefly determines success in battle?
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