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War and Peace, Part 1: First Epilogue: 1813–20, Chapter 9 summary

Part 1: First Epilogue: 1813–20, Chapter 9 of 365 · 9 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 9, Countess Mary mistakes Nicholas’s tired irritability for rejection, and their daughter’s affectionate visit helps the couple make peace. Nicholas reassures Mary that she is essential to him, Pierre returns after a prolonged absence, and Mary reflects on her happiness with a trace of sadness.

What happens

  1. On the eve of his name day, Nicholas attends to estate business and comes to dinner in an irritable mood.
  2. Pregnant Countess Mary takes his sharp replies personally and fears that her appearance makes her unwelcome.
  3. Mary approaches the sleeping Nicholas, but little Andrew follows her and wakes him, provoking another sharp response.
  4. Their daughter Natásha wakes Nicholas affectionately, and he welcomes Mary and reassures her of his attachment.
  5. The couple resume sharing their thoughts, and Nicholas admits his special fondness for their daughter.
  6. Pierre’s arrival delights the adult Natásha, while Mary remains behind and contemplates her happiness with quiet sadness.

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In this chapter

PierrePrince AndrewNatáshaNicholasPrincess Mary

What to notice

Nicholas explains his attachment as a deep need rather than admiration of beauty. His reassurance answers Mary’s fear that pregnancy and plainness make her unloved.

Quick check

What helps Nicholas and Mary reconcile?

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