War and Peace, Book 3: 1805, Chapter 9 summary
Book 3: 1805, Chapter 9 of 365 · 10 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 9, Borís seeks an adjutant’s post through Prince Andrew and discovers that personal connections can outweigh military rank. Prince Andrew takes him to Prince Dolgorúkov, but the Emperor interrupts their request, while headquarters celebrates a decision to attack and the army begins its campaign without Borís securing a new position.
What happens
- Borís visits Olmütz seeking Prince Andrew’s help and returns after an unsuccessful first attempt.
- He watches Prince Andrew make a decorated general wait and resolves to follow the army’s unofficial hierarchy.
- Prince Andrew offers to approach Prince Dolgorúkov because influence now centers on the Emperor rather than Kutúzov.
- At the palace, Dolgorúkov celebrates the council’s decision to attack and praises Weyrother’s preparations.
- An imperial summons interrupts the request for Borís, and Prince Andrew encounters Prince Adam Czartorýski with hostility.
- The army begins its campaign the next day, while Borís remains temporarily with the Ismáylov regiment.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Borís turns an observation about unequal treatment into a rule for his own conduct. Personal influence becomes central to his pursuit of advancement.
Quick check
Why does Prince Andrew take Borís to Dolgorúkov rather than directly to Kutúzov?
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