War and Peace, Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 21 summary
Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 21 of 365 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Pierre learns that Natásha survives poisoning herself, tries to protect her reputation, and visits Prince Andrew after his return to Moscow. Prince Andrew gives back her letters and portrait, refuses to forgive her, and demands silence about the broken engagement, while Pierre recognizes the pain beneath his restless arguments.
What happens
- Márya Dmítrievna tells Pierre that Natásha takes arsenic after learning Anatole is married, but receives antidotes in time.
- Pierre denies gossip about Natásha’s attempted abduction and waits anxiously for Prince Andrew to return.
- Prince Andrew receives Natásha’s rejection through his father, who also supplies an embellished account of her attempted elopement.
- Pierre finds Prince Andrew arguing energetically in defense of Speránski and recognizes his effort to suppress personal suffering.
- Prince Andrew hands Pierre Natásha’s letters and portrait, declares her free, and refuses to discuss forgiving her.
- Pierre notices the family’s hostility toward the Rostóvs, while Prince Andrew continues arguing at dinner.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Prince Andrew separates his stated moral principle from his own emotional limits. This refusal blocks Pierre’s attempt to reopen discussion of the engagement.
Quick check
What does Prince Andrew ask Pierre to give Natásha?
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