War and Peace, Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 14 summary
Book 8: 1811–12, Chapter 14 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 14, Márya Dmítrievna advises Count Rostóv to take Natásha home, while Princess Mary sends a letter seeking reconciliation. Natásha cannot finish her reply because she feels torn between Prince Andrew and Anatole, whose passionate letter offers to carry her away and strengthens her conviction that she loves him.
What happens
- Márya Dmítrievna reports Prince Bolkónski’s resistance and advises returning to Otrádnoe; Count Rostóv agrees.
- Princess Mary’s letter offers affection, defends her father, and asks Natásha to meet again.
- Natásha begins a reply but stops, troubled by thoughts of breaking her engagement.
- After dinner, she recalls her love for Prince Andrew while also feeling drawn to Anatole.
- A maid delivers Anatole’s letter, written by Dólokhov, proposing to carry Natásha away if she consents.
- Natásha repeatedly reads the letter and stays home that evening, claiming a headache.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The letter presents love as an absolute necessity. Natásha treats its passionate claims as confirmation of her own feelings.
Quick check
Who writes the love letter Natásha receives from Anatole?
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