War and Peace, Book 2: 1805, Chapter 1 summary
Book 2: 1805, Chapter 1 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, a Russian regiment near Braunau prepares for inspection in parade dress, only to learn that Kutúzov wants to see its actual marching condition to support his opposition to joining another army. The soldiers hurriedly change into greatcoats, and Dólokhov's refusal to accept insults forces the angry regimental commander to soften his language.
What happens
- After a long march, the regiment spends the night preparing for inspection, though many soldiers still have damaged boots.
- An aide-de-camp clarifies that Kutúzov wants marching dress, not parade dress.
- Kutúzov intends the troops' poor condition to support his opposition to joining the army of Archduke Ferdinand and Mack.
- The soldiers change into greatcoats, and the regimental commander berates the third company's captain over Dólokhov's different-colored coat.
- Dólokhov refuses to endure insults, and the commander turns his demand into a polite request.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Dólokhov draws a boundary between obedience and humiliation. His direct resistance makes the general replace abuse with a courteous request.
Quick check
Why does Kutúzov want the regiment shown in marching condition?
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