Who Nikolai Rostov is
Nikolai Rostov belongs to the warm, generous Rostov family, whose home in Moscow contrasts with the careful manners of court society. Young and eager, he joins the hussars and goes to the campaign in Austria.
What Nikolai Rostov wants
Nikolai loves honor, his regiment and his family, loyalties that connect his military life with his life at home. His father spends more than he has, while his mother worries about the family's growing money troubles.
How Nikolai Rostov changes
In his first fights, Nikolai feels frightened and is ashamed of that fear. The mud, hunger and sudden dangers of battle teach him what serving under fire really means. His friend Denisov, a loyal officer, helps him learn how a regiment becomes a second family.
Nikolai Rostov and the others in the story
Natasha is Nikolai's sister, and Sonya is their orphaned cousin, raised in the Rostov household. Sonya is quiet and dutiful, and she is devoted to Nikolai.
Questions
How is Nikolai Rostov related to Natasha?
Nikolai is Natasha's brother, part of the affectionate but financially troubled Rostov family.
Who is Nikolai Rostov's friend in the army?
Denisov is his friend and fellow officer, showing him the close bonds of regimental life.