Anna Karenina, Chapter 2 summary
Chapter 2 of 239 · Part 1 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Stepan Arkadyevitch regrets exposure rather than his infidelity and turns to his daily routine to escape his distress. A telegram announcing Anna Arkadyevna’s visit offers hope of reconciliation, but Darya Alexandrovna says she is leaving, and the nurse urges him to seek forgiveness.
What happens
- Stepan Arkadyevitch admits to himself that he regrets failing to hide his infidelity, not his behavior.
- Unable to find a solution, he turns to dressing and shaving as distractions from his troubles.
- A telegram announces Anna Arkadyevna’s arrival tomorrow, raising hopes that she can reconcile the couple.
- Matvey delivers Darya Alexandrovna’s message that she intends to leave and refuses to direct preparations.
- Matrona Philimonovna urges Stepan Arkadyevitch to admit his fault and consider his suffering wife and children.
- Stepan Arkadyevitch says his wife refuses to see him, dismisses the nurse, and resumes dressing.
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Why does Anna Arkadyevna’s telegram raise hopes?
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