War and Peace, Book 9: 1812, Chapter 7 summary
Book 9: 1812, Chapter 7 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 7, Napoleon invites Balashëv to dinner, dismisses his pointed replies, and treats him as an admirer rather than an opposing envoy. His friendly manner gives way to threats against Alexander, and Balashëv departs with Napoleon’s final letter to the Russian ruler as war begins.
What happens
- Duroc invites Balashëv to dinner despite the envoy’s expectation that Napoleon wants to avoid him.
- Napoleon asks about Moscow and calls its many religious buildings evidence of backwardness.
- Balashëv invokes Spain and Poltava, but his pointed answers receive no acknowledgment.
- Over coffee in Alexander’s former study, Napoleon mocks Alexander’s advisers and threatens his German relatives.
- Napoleon questions Alexander’s military leadership, pulls Balashëv’s ear as a favor, and provides horses for his departure.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Napoleon claims military authority for himself while denying Alexander’s competence. The remark exposes the rivalry beneath his outward hospitality.
Quick check
Why does Balashëv mention Spain during dinner?
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