War and Peace, Book 11: 1812, Chapter 2 summary
Book 11: 1812, Chapter 2 of 365 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, the narrator traces the invasion and retreat, explaining why Kutúzov abandons Moscow despite wanting another battle after Borodinó. The argument shifts responsibility away from a general’s free choice toward losses, conflicting reports, urgent demands, and the accumulated effects of events already in motion.
What happens
- The invading army advances toward Moscow, while Russian retreat strengthens resistance and hatred of the enemy.
- The armies clash at Borodinó, and the Russians withdraw despite believing they have won.
- The French occupy Moscow for five weeks, then flee beyond Smolénsk despite holding the battlefield at Málo-Yaroslávets.
- Severe losses and unmet practical needs prevent Kutúzov from fighting again and force continued retreat beyond Moscow.
- The narrator explains how contradictory advice, immediate demands, and incomplete information restrict a commander’s choices.
- The abandonment of Moscow emerges as the accumulated result of earlier battles and every stage of retreat.
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Why can Kutúzov not fight another battle immediately after Borodinó?
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