Anna Karenina, Part 4, Chapter 5 summary
Part 4, Chapter 5 of 239 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 5, Alexey Alexandrovitch consults a lawyer about divorcing his wife while keeping his son, but rejects an arranged discovery of adultery because of his religious scruples. The lawyer insists that success requires freedom to choose the methods, and Alexey Alexandrovitch leaves without committing himself, promising an answer within a week.
What happens
- Alexey Alexandrovitch encounters an unfriendly clerk, but presenting his card secures prompt admission to the lawyer.
- He requests confidentiality and explains that he wants a divorce while keeping his son.
- The lawyer outlines legal grounds and recommends arranging for adultery to be discovered by agreement.
- Alexey Alexandrovitch rejects that method and proposes using letters to support evidence of an unplanned discovery.
- The lawyer explains that eyewitnesses are necessary and requests complete control over the methods.
- Alexey Alexandrovitch promises a decision within a week, leaving the lawyer delighted with the consultation.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The lawyer makes the desired divorce depend on accepting his methods. This exposes the conflict between Alexey Alexandrovitch’s goal and his religious objections.
Quick check
Why does the lawyer consider letters insufficient for the divorce case?
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