War and Peace, Book 3: 1805, Chapter 19 summary
Book 3: 1805, Chapter 19 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 19, Prince Andrew Bolkónski lies wounded, receives Napoleon’s attention, and finds his former hero insignificant beside the sky and the nearness of death. As prisoners carry on toward medical care, Andrew questions religious certainty, sinks into delirium, and remains with local people after Larrey judges recovery unlikely.
What happens
- Prince Andrew regains consciousness on the Pratzen Heights, and Napoleon orders help when he notices that Andrew lives.
- Taken among captured Russian officers, Andrew hears Napoleon praise Prince Repnín and Lieutenant Sukhtélen.
- Andrew gives Napoleon no answer because military greatness seems insignificant beside his thoughts about suffering, life, and death.
- Soldiers return Andrew’s icon, prompting him to envy Mary’s certainty while questioning his own ability to pray.
- Andrew becomes delirious, and Larrey predicts death; Andrew remains with local people among the gravely wounded.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Andrew rejects familiar measures of importance without finding a clear replacement. His thoughts connect his loss of admiration for Napoleon with his uncertainty about faith.
Quick check
Why do the soldiers return Andrew’s icon?
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