War and Peace, Book 3: 1805, Chapter 13 summary
Book 3: 1805, Chapter 13 of 365 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 13, Rostóv fights sleep on patrol, investigates French shouting, and confirms under fire that enemy sentries remain on the hill. Bagratión grants him a place with his staff, feeding his hope of meeting the Emperor, while the narrator explains that Napoleon’s appearance causes the French celebration.
What happens
- On night patrol, Rostóv struggles to stay awake and dreams of serving the Emperor.
- French shouting and spreading fires wake him fully, and Bagratión and Dolgorúkov arrive to investigate.
- Dolgorúkov calls the display a cover for retreat, while Bagratión doubts his explanation.
- With permission to scout, Rostóv leads three hussars toward the French position, ignores a limit, and draws gunfire.
- Rostóv reports that the sentries remain and gains permission to join Bagratión’s staff instead of remaining in reserve.
- The narrator explains the celebration and gives Napoleon’s proclamation promising personal leadership and demanding victory.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The sentence joins fear with pleasure in Rostóv’s experience of reconnaissance. His delight after the gunfire strengthens this connection between danger and excitement.
Quick check
What actually causes the French fires and shouting?
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