Anna Karenina, Part 7, Chapter 5 summary
Part 7, Chapter 5 of 239 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 5, Levin attends a concert but cannot make sense of a new fantasia, prompting an argument with Pestsov about whether different arts should combine. Pestsov’s talking prevents him from hearing the second piece, and a meeting with Count Bol reminds him of a neglected social call.
What happens
- Levin escorts his sister-in-law to her seat and concentrates on listening to a new fantasia.
- The music’s disconnected emotions leave him confused and exhausted, despite the applause around him.
- Pestsov points him toward the program’s Shakespeare passages to explain the music’s connection with Cordelia.
- Levin argues that arts should keep their separate methods, while Pestsov defends their union.
- Pestsov talks through most of the second piece, preventing Levin from hearing it.
- Levin meets Count Bol, remembers an overdue call, and receives Madame Lvova’s advice to go immediately.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The comparison captures Levin’s inability to understand music that others applaud. His uncertainty drives him to seek explanations from other listeners.
Quick check
Why does Levin fail to hear the second piece?
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