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Anna Karenina, Part 2, Chapter 31 summary

Part 2, Chapter 31 of 239 · 4 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 31, Kitty’s admiration for Varenka grows when Varenka calms Levin during an angry confrontation with a doctor, and Kitty presses her mother to arrange an introduction. The princess finds Varenka sincere and approachable, allowing Kitty to begin the friendship she eagerly seeks.

What happens

  1. During a rainy morning in the arcades, Kitty watches Varenka help a blind Frenchwoman and asks her mother for an introduction.
  2. Levin shouts at a doctor and threatens him with his stick; the colonel reports that Varenka leads Levin away.
  3. The next day, Kitty sees Varenka helping Levin and interpreting for his companion, and again urges her mother to introduce them.
  4. The princess approaches Varenka, who explains her care for Levin and says Madame Stahl raises her without being related to her.
  5. Kitty joyfully takes Varenka’s hand, and Varenka welcomes their friendship before leaving with two children whose mother calls her.

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In this chapter

LevinKitty

What to notice

Varenka explains Levin’s behavior through his illness rather than condemning him. Her practical experience supports Kitty’s admiration for her kindness.

Quick check

What does Varenka explain about her relationship with Madame Stahl?

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