War and Peace, Book 9: 1812, Chapter 3 summary
Book 9: 1812, Chapter 3 of 365 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Alexander attends a lavish entertainment near Vílna while Russian military preparations remain confused, then learns that Napoleon’s troops have crossed the frontier. He declares his refusal to accept peace while enemy soldiers remain in Russia, orders official statements, and sends Napoleon a letter offering an understanding if the invading troops withdraw.
What happens
- Alexander remains in Vílna without establishing a unified command, while his attendants concentrate on entertaining him.
- His aides-de-camp arrange a celebration at Count Bennigsen’s estate on the day Napoleon orders the crossing of the Niemen.
- Borís Drubetskóy dances with Hélène but watches Alexander and notices Balashëv delivering urgent news.
- Borís follows their movements and overhears Alexander rejecting peace while armed enemies remain in Russia.
- Borís uses his early knowledge to impress important people, while Alexander commissions military orders and a rescript.
- Alexander sends Napoleon a letter demanding withdrawal and disputing the stated grounds for the invasion.

Gratuit pendant 3 mois
Obtenez le résumé complet de Guerre et Paix, gratuitement
- 200 000+ classiques en livres numériques, livres audio et résumés en 15 minutes, et des livres imprimés, y compris en gros caractères, au coût d’impression
- Jusqu’à 5 lecteurs de votre foyer avec une seule formule
In this chapter
What to notice
Alexander’s immediate reaction becomes a demand for official statements. The line links his personal outrage to his declared position on peace.
Quick check
How does Borís gain early knowledge of the invasion?

Gratuit pendant 3 mois
Obtenez le résumé complet de Guerre et Paix, gratuitement
- 200 000+ classiques en livres numériques, livres audio et résumés en 15 minutes, et des livres imprimés, y compris en gros caractères, au coût d’impression
- Jusqu’à 5 lecteurs de votre foyer avec une seule formule

15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
















