Anna Karenina, Part 2, Chapter 20 summary
Part 2, Chapter 20 of 239 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 20, Vronsky leaves his drinking companions to visit the stables, carrying a reproachful letter from his mother and a note requesting a conversation with his brother. He resents their interference and postpones reading the papers carefully so that they do not distract him before he sees his mare.
What happens
- Yashvin wakes Petritsky, who reports a visit from Vronsky’s brother and seeks relief from his drinking.
- Vronsky refuses alcohol and says he must visit the stables and pay Bryansky money for horses.
- Petritsky retrieves the family papers from beneath his mattress, and Vronsky reacts inwardly against his relatives’ interference.
- Two officers arrive, discuss horses and muddy racing conditions, and join the conversation about the previous night’s drinking.
- Vronsky leaves cheerfully, orders his carriage toward the stables, and delays reading the papers until after seeing his mare.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Vronsky deliberately separates family concerns from his immediate interest in the horse. His choice closes the scene with the papers still unread carefully.
Quick check
Where does Petritsky find the papers left for Vronsky?
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