War and Peace, Book 13: 1812, Chapter 8 summary
Book 13: 1812, Chapter 8 of 365 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 8, the narrator contrasts Napoleon’s strong position in Moscow with his damaging choices, including unchecked plunder and retreat along a devastated road. He rejects both praise for Napoleon’s genius and blame for his stupidity, arguing that individual actions coincide with larger laws governing events.
What happens
- Napoleon occupies Moscow with superior numbers and abundant supplies, giving him several apparently favorable options.
- He fails to stop plunder, prepare winter clothes, or organize the collection of food.
- He leaves Moscow in October and reaches Málo-Yaroslávets before retreating toward Mozháysk along the ruined Smolénsk road.
- The narrator rejects the claim that Napoleon’s personal brilliance or stupidity explains either his advance or his army’s destruction.
- He challenges historians who judge ability by results and describes Napoleon’s continuing flow of orders and plans.
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In this chapter
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Which practical measure does Napoleon fail to take in Moscow?
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