War and Peace, Book 15: 1812–13, Chapter 1 summary
Book 15: 1812–13, Chapter 1 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, Natásha and Princess Mary retreat into grief after Prince Andrew’s death, but practical duties draw Princess Mary toward ordinary life while Natásha refuses to leave. Alone, Natásha revisits a painful conversation and imagines correcting her words, until Dunyásha interrupts with news of a misfortune concerning Peter Ilýnich.
What happens
- Her nephew’s health and household business draw Princess Mary into preparations for Moscow.
- Natásha rejects the proposed journey and increasingly shuts herself away from everyone.
- She remembers Prince Andrew’s suffering and fears that her awkward reassurance makes him misunderstand her love.
- She imagines answering him differently, but Dunyásha interrupts with an urgent summons and news concerning Peter Ilýnich.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Guerre et Paix, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
In this chapter
What to notice
The sentence marks the pressure of ordinary duties against mourning. Princess Mary responds to that pressure, while Natásha continues to resist contact with daily life.
Quick check
Why does Princess Mary begin preparing to leave for Moscow?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Guerre et Paix, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
