War and Peace, Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 3 summary
Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 3 of 365 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Prince Nicholas Bolkónski accuses Métivier of spying, orders him out, and blames Princess Mary, insisting that she find somewhere else to live. At his name-day dinner, guests discuss Napoleon and Russian policy, while the prince maintains his anger toward his daughter and welcomes Rostopchín’s attack on French influence.
What happens
- Métivier enters despite restrictions on visitors, and Prince Nicholas Bolkónski drives him out as a supposed French spy.
- The prince blames Princess Mary for admitting the doctor and insists that they must live apart.
- Six dinner guests gather, including Borís Drubetskóy, who cultivates admission to the prince’s exclusive circle.
- The guests discuss Napoleon’s actions, Russia’s diplomatic protest, and an alleged insult by the French ambassador.
- The prince repeats his accusations against Métivier, and nobody challenges his weak reasons.
- Over coffee, the prince argues for a firm Russian frontier and warmly approves Rostopchín’s denunciation of French influence.
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In this chapter
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Why does Prince Nicholas blame Princess Mary after Métivier leaves?
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