War and Peace, Book 5: 1806–07, Chapter 21 summary
Book 5: 1806–07, Chapter 21 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Rostóv watches Alexander welcome Napoleon and sees Lázarev receive a French honor, prompting painful doubts about military suffering and unequal rewards. Unable to resolve these thoughts, he drinks and fiercely insists that soldiers must obey their Emperor rather than question his decisions.
What happens
- Alexander and Napoleon greet each other before Russian and French battalions, while Rostóv watches with discomfort.
- Napoleon requests a brave Russian soldier to honor, and Prince Kozlóvski selects Lázarev.
- Napoleon decorates Lázarev, and the soldiers celebrate together after the Emperors leave.
- Borís notices Rostóv’s distress, while Rostóv contrasts the celebration with Denísov’s punishment and the suffering in the hospital.
- At a hotel, Rostóv drinks heavily and answers criticism of the peace by demanding unquestioning military obedience.
- In 1808, Alexander visits Erfurt to meet Napoleon again, prompting discussion in Petersburg society.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Rostóv asserts absolute obedience while struggling with doubts about the peace. His anger answers his own troubling thoughts more than his companions’ remarks.
Quick check
Who selects Lázarev to receive Napoleon’s decoration?
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