War and Peace, Book 2: 1805, Chapter 13 summary
Book 2: 1805, Chapter 13 of 365 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 13, Prince Andrew rejoins the disorderly Russian retreat, protects a doctor’s wife from a transport officer, and reaches headquarters deeply troubled by what he sees. There he learns that battle orders replace rumors of surrender, while Kutúzov keeps him close despite his request to join Bagratión’s dangerous detachment.
What happens
- Prince Andrew borrows a horse and rides through the retreating army, finding blocked roads, abandoned equipment, and soldiers beyond their officers’ control.
- He threatens a drunken transport officer with his riding whip to secure passage for a doctor’s wife.
- Nesvítski and another adjutant greet him with anxious questions about surrender, but none of them knows what is happening.
- At headquarters, Kozlóvski tells Andrew that orders call for battle, not surrender.
- Kutúzov blesses Bagratión, refuses Andrew’s request to join his detachment, and takes Andrew into his carriage.
- Kutúzov expects terrible losses for Bagratión’s force, then calmly asks Andrew about his court visit.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Kutúzov’s estimate reveals the danger facing Bagratión’s force. Andrew responds by renewing his request to join it.
Quick check
What does Kozlóvski tell Andrew about surrender?
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