War and Peace, Chapter 9 summary
Chapter 9 of 365 · Book 1: 1805 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 9, Pierre breaks his promise to Prince Andrew and joins Anatole Kurágin’s gathering, where Dólokhov wagers that he can drink rum outside a third-floor window without holding on. Dólokhov succeeds, and the drunken Pierre tries to copy him before accepting a change of plans and dancing with a bear.
What happens
- Pierre excuses breaking his promise to Prince Andrew and goes to Anatole Kurágin’s gathering instead of going home.
- Anatole gives Pierre repeated drinks and explains Dólokhov’s dangerous wager with Stevens.
- Pierre tears out the window frame, and Dólokhov climbs onto the narrow outer ledge with a bottle of rum.
- Pierre demands to repeat the feat, but Anatole distracts him with another outing, and Pierre dances with the bear.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Pierre moves from frightened spectator to eager imitator. His challenge shows how drinking and the gathering’s excitement overcome his caution.
Quick check
How does Anatole stop Pierre from repeating Dólokhov’s stunt?
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