War and Peace, Book 2: 1805, Chapter 12 summary
Book 2: 1805, Chapter 12 of 365 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 12, Prince Andrew receives honors at the Austrian court, then learns from Bilíbin that French forces have taken the Thabor Bridge and threaten the Russian army’s communications. Seeing the crisis as a chance to win fame by saving the army, he decides to return immediately despite Bilíbin’s advice to protect himself.
What happens
- Emperor Francis questions Prince Andrew about the battle but interrupts his attempts to give a detailed account.
- Court officials welcome Andrew, and he learns that the Emperor awards him a military decoration.
- Returning to Bilíbin’s house, Andrew finds preparations to leave and hears that the French have captured the Thabor Bridge.
- Bilíbin describes how French marshals deceive Prince Auersperg and prevent the destruction of the bridge.
- Andrew imagines saving the threatened army and orders preparations for his immediate departure.
- Bilíbin urges him to remain safely away, but Andrew holds to his decision.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Andrew privately turns military disaster into a vision of personal achievement. The thought reveals the ambition behind his refusal to stay with Bilíbin.
Quick check
Why does Auersperg order the sergeant arrested in Bilíbin’s account?
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