War and Peace, Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 18 summary
Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 18 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 18, Márya Dmítrievna discovers Natásha’s planned escape, locks her in her room, and tries to contain the scandal after the abductors flee. Natásha defends the man she loves and waits for news, while Count Rostóv accepts an account of illness rather than investigate his daughter’s distress.
What happens
- Márya Dmítrievna makes Sónya confess, intercepts Natásha’s note, and locks Natásha in her room.
- She orders the servants to detain the visitors, but Gabriel reports that the men escape.
- Márya Dmítrievna confronts Natásha, who says she refuses her fiancé and angrily defends the other man.
- Márya Dmítrievna insists on secrecy and tends Natásha, who remains awake and silent throughout the night.
- Count Rostóv returns the next day, hears that Natásha is ill, and avoids investigating the signs of trouble.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Natásha experiences the intervention as rejection rather than protection. Her outburst shows the emotional distance between her and those trying to contain the scandal.
Quick check
Why does Count Rostóv avoid investigating Natásha’s distress?
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