War and Peace, Book 15: 1812–13, Chapter 13 summary
Book 15: 1812–13, Chapter 13 of 365 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 13, Pierre’s recovery in Orël reveals a new contentment that draws others toward him and helps him accept their different views without argument. He also gains confidence in practical decisions, choosing to pay his wife’s debts and rebuild his properties before setting out toward Moscow with Count Willarski.
What happens
- Pierre remains absent-minded, but his happiness and attentive listening replace his former distress and win people’s confidence.
- The princess, his servants, his doctor, and an Italian prisoner respond warmly to his interest in them.
- Count Willarski visits regularly, enjoying Pierre’s company despite judging his changed outlook as apathy.
- Pierre refuses a French colonel’s demand for money but decides to help the Italian officer.
- After hearing Savélich and receiving letters, Pierre decides to settle his wife’s debts and rebuild his Moscow properties despite reduced income.
- Traveling with Willarski, Pierre delights in the people around him and sees vitality where his companion sees backwardness.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Pierre separates his sense of well-being from his financial losses. His cheerful response captures the contentment that also changes his relationships and decisions.
Quick check
What does Pierre decide about his wife’s debts and his damaged properties?
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