War and Peace, Book 9: 1812, Chapter 21 summary
Book 9: 1812, Chapter 21 of 365 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Pétya secretly goes to see the Emperor in Moscow, loses consciousness in the crowd, and abandons his plan to present a personal petition. His excitement strengthens his determination to join the army, and his threat to run away prompts Count Ilyá Rostóv to investigate a less dangerous posting.
What happens
- After weeping over a refusal, Pétya secretly leaves home the next morning, hoping to tell the Emperor he wants to serve.
- The crowd crushes Pétya unconscious as the Emperor approaches the cathedral, and a clerk rescues him.
- From the Tsar Cannon, Pétya waits for the Emperor and resolves to enlist while cheering a man he mistakenly identifies as him.
- When the Emperor throws biscuits from a balcony, Pétya knocks down an old woman and seizes one.
- Pétya visits Obolénski, then threatens to run away unless allowed to enlist; his father seeks a comparatively safe way for him to serve.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Guerre et Paix, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
Quick check
Who helps Pétya after he loses consciousness?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Guerre et Paix, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
