Anna Karenina, Chapter 4 summary
Chapter 4 of 239 · Part 1 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Darya Alexandrovna rejects Stepan Arkadyevitch’s plea for forgiveness over his affair with the children’s governess, although she still loves him and cannot bring herself to leave. He departs with renewed hope, while she returns to caring for the children without resolving their broken relationship.
What happens
- Darya Alexandrovna sorts belongings for a departure she feels unable to carry out because of love and concern for her children.
- Stepan Arkadyevitch announces Anna’s arrival and begs forgiveness, but his description of the affair renews his wife’s anger.
- Both appeal to the children, but Darya Alexandrovna rejects his touch and calls him a stranger.
- A child’s cry interrupts the confrontation, and Darya Alexandrovna leaves with another threat to move out.
- Stepan Arkadyevitch recovers enough to smile, orders preparations for Anna, gives Matvey housekeeping money, and leaves.
- Darya Alexandrovna questions whether the affair continues, then turns to urgent household duties.
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In this chapter
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What interrupts the confrontation between Darya Alexandrovna and her husband?
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