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The Idiot, Part 3, Chapter 2 summary

Part 3, Chapter 2 of 50 · 20 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 2, the prince apologizes for his social awkwardness, Aglaya fiercely defends him and rejects marriage, and their party goes to hear music. Nastasia Philipovna publicly reports Evgenie Pavlovitch’s uncle’s suicide, strikes an insulting officer, and draws the prince into a violent confrontation that Aglaya stays to watch.

What happens

  1. The prince calls himself unfit for society, but Aglaya defends his worth before angrily declaring that she refuses to marry him.
  2. His assurance that he never proposes marriage makes the sisters laugh, and Aglaya takes his arm for their walk.
  3. Aglaya points out a secluded bench where she sits early in the morning, then asks the prince to remain silent.
  4. At the concert, the prince withdraws into his thoughts, while Aglaya alternates between lively conversation and anxious attention to the crowd.
  5. Nastasia Philipovna announces that Evgenie Pavlovitch’s uncle shoots himself and reports missing government money; the Epanchins leave.
  6. Nastasia strikes an insulting officer; the prince intervenes, Keller offers protection, and Rogojin takes her away while Aglaya watches.

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In this chapter

Nastasia PhilipovnaRogojinAglaya

What to notice

Aglaya rejects the prince’s low estimate of himself and attacks his submission to social judgment. Her defense sharply contrasts with her own mockery of him.

Quick check

Why does Nastasia strike the young officer?

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