Anna Karenina, Part 7, Chapter 21 summary
Part 7, Chapter 21 of 239 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Stepan Arkadyevitch visits Countess Lidia Ivanovna hoping to gain support for an appointment, but she and Alexey Alexandrovitch turn the conversation toward religious belief. He hides his skepticism to protect his prospects, then decides against making his request as the countess begins reading a religious book.
What happens
- Stepan Arkadyevitch arrives after dinner and meets Landau, whom the countess also identifies as Count Bezzubov.
- Lidia Ivanovna describes Alexey Alexandrovitch’s spiritual transformation, while Stepan Arkadyevitch privately considers seeking her influence with ministers.
- Alexey Alexandrovitch and the countess challenge Stepan Arkadyevitch’s uncertainty about religion and urge openness to divine grace.
- They argue that faith brings salvation, while Stepan Arkadyevitch cautiously raises the importance of deeds.
- The countess cites Marie Sanina’s response to her child’s death as evidence of religious comfort.
- Stepan Arkadyevitch decides not to seek assistance during this visit, and the countess starts reading as Landau closes his eyes.
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Why does Stepan Arkadyevitch avoid admitting his free-thinking views?
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