War & Peace Podnotes, A Study Guide

This second episode on the Calvary Maiden takes you through some of the formative years of the author, Nadezhda Durova. Durova wrote briefly of her years growing up then focused on her time dressing as a man and serving for 10 years as a low-level officer in the Czar's army, starting around 1806.Her journals were source material for Tolstoy as to the lives of those who served in the period War & Peace is set, 1805-1812.  It is presented to give you a glimpse into those frequently nameless and overlooked, who often gave their lives in the Napoleonic conflicts.Durova's story brings up still-relevant issues of identify, in terms how some who grew up in modern-day Ukraine or partitioned Poland, had different ties, (some to Polish nobility, others to Cossacks, some to Turks, others to runaway serfs), identified themselves.  A number, like Durova, graciously accepted a life of service to the Czar. Others, like the former serf, Taras Shevchenko, or the Polish Diplomat, Adam Czartoryski, advanced the idea of nationhood and identity separate from Russian domination.This episode is a brief overview of Durova's experience from when she was 4 months-old, when she begins to articulate the ever-present animosity with her mother. This is illustrated with Durova being thrown out of a moving carriage upon her mother became frustrated while nursing. Her father then gave her to the primary care of one of his male servants, who Durova clung to at the sight of her mother.  For her first four years of life, Durova's family remained on the road, in military service, where she was affected by hussars shouting, drilling and riding their horses. This lifestyle attracted her. Her Muscovite father recognized life with a growing family mandated a different position and traveled to Moscow in search of same.  It was at that time that Durova and her mother returned to her parents' home near the Poltova region in Ukraine. She spent time on the property marching, making forts, and pretending to be in hussar service.  Her maternal grandparents, who initially rejected their Ukrainian daughter marrying a Muscovite, reconciled with the situation. Durova's father eventually received a commission to become a district mayor in Sarapul, near the Kama River in the foothills of the Ural Mountains. She spent the better part of a decade in this colder climate. She would often run away and explore nearby forests and rivers. Her father accepted her adventurous inclinations and gifted her horse, Alcides, who remained with Durova well into her military service. Durova would often wake up at the crack-of-dawn and take Alcides for a liberating run, with servants becoming accustomed to this unusual dynamic.  This frustrated her mother to no end. However, her kind father and the rest of the family got a kick out of Durova's precociousness. She remained in Sarapul until her mother grew tired of her presence and encouraged sending her back to Ukraine to live with her grandmother.

Tolstoy addresses the over-confidence of Napoleon's adversaries prior to the battle of Austerlitz, when Kutuzov's forces and the Austrians reached their limit of no further retreat, winding up near Olmütz. Here, Emperors Alexandr & Francis would review their troops that numbered around 80,000 (both seasoned and reinforcements) before a 40-mile march south to fight the French, who had around 50,000 soldiers near Brünn.    Napoleon's supply lines were extended after traveling so far into the Holy Roman Empire and Kutuzov is historically thought to have been reticent to engage Napoleon as he thought it better to draw the French further east and wait for Prussia to align against Napoleon.  Yet he recognized with two Emperors meeting face-to-face and the French occupying Vienna, there was a compelling reason to fight. He also recognized Alexandr wanted to be the first Czar since Peter I to lead a battle of such magnitude.  Moreover, the recent skirmishes created a consensus, this would be where Napoleon's magnificent run ended. We are brought to the morning of the review. From the crack of dawn, there was preparation, with throngs of men moving and halting upon command. Groups turned with banners and wheeled around each other. Prominent was the rhythmic beating of hooves and drums while calvary soldiers were carried on their steeds.  From the artillery wagons, polished cannons and guns glimmered. Every soldier was shaved, with weapons clean and polished and generals strutted in their fancy parade uniforms.  Even the horses were groomed to the point their coats shined like satin. This Review bordered on the sacred. The men held inner feelings of insignificance before Majesty but were also conscious of their strength as a part of an enormous tempest. By 10:00 a.m., the army was extended in three lines: cavalry in front, then artillery, and in the third row - infantry.  All were ready to greet Alexandr and Francis. Soon enough, ran an excited whisper, “They're coming!” Joy swept over the troops as hundreds of riders guarding the leaders moved closer as trumpets heralded.  At the head where the two Emperors.   Alexander's youthful but majestic voice was heard. Those nearby roared “Hurrah!” so deafeningly that the men were awed by their own power. Rostov was in that throng and experienced what all others had: self-forgetfulness, a proud consciousness of might and devotion.  He knew a single word from him would lead all to go through fire and and perform deeds of the highest heroism.   “Hurrah! continued to thunder. Rostov was near the trumpeters and recognized the Tsar. He  could distinguish every detail of his face. Alexandr's every movement was enchanting. The Tsar said something in French to Francis. Every sound from him was a gift from heaven. Rostov felt the most powerful flow of love for his sovereign, which he longed to demonstrate and considered, “if the Emperor would speak to me, I would die of happiness.”  The Tsar addressed the officers: “I thank you all, gentlemen, I thank you with my whole heart.”  When Alexandr moved down the line, he was  accompanied by a sea of high-level aides.  Rostov noticed Bolkonsky among them.   When thinking of their recent quarrel, Rostov realized Andrei was correct to suggest the matter be dropped. Such a disagreement was “not even worth thinking of at such a moment! At a time of such love, rapture and such self-sacrifice. What do any such affronts matter?  For, I love and forgive everybody!”     When the troops saw their Emperors, they instantly felt they could lay down their lives.  It a phenomena that exists through the ages and Tolstoy gets you to question such devotion. After some time, select soldiers began a ceremonial march past Alexandr, including Rostov, a who was a fine horseman. He rode Bedouin, recently purchased from Denísov and it seemed the animal knew he was in the presence of royalty. “Fine fellows, those Pavlograds!” commented the Emperor.    When it was over, the soldiers collected in groups and began to talk. All discussion soon turned to Bonaparte and how he would be vanquished, especially if reinforcements came from Prussia.  Soon enough the conversation in every group centered on Emperor Alexandr.  His every word and movement was described with ecstasy. They all had one wish: to advance as soon as possible! All felt they could not fail.

This edition examines the second Sevastopol Sketch, where Tolstoy covers an all-too-common artillery battle and truce afterward. It focuses on May of 1855, roughly six months into the 11-month Siege during the Crimean War.In the recent W&P episode, Tolstoy describes how young soldiers are typically unable to speak the truth and will conform their wartime stories to the expectations of their audience, as well as put themselves in the best light.  He plays this out using the fictional Rostov, who was fearful and shaky on this horse as he headed into one of his first calvary charges.  Rostov's horse was shot out from under him and he fell to the ground, disoriented. When he came to, Rostov quickly became in fear of losing his life and ran into the woods like an animal pursued, with the French in hot pursuit.  He soon pondered, “Why did I even come here?” However, when he conveyed this event days later, he told his old friends (Boris & Berg) how he was in a frenzy while charging and slashing at the French. Truth was completely lost on the symbolic good-hearted lad.Tolstoy, a decade before publishing W&P, memorably wrote that the hero of his second Sevastopol Sketch (roughly 35 pages), whom he loves with all of his soul, was Truth. It is something War obscures. He succeeded in conveying a truth of War in this sketch, namely its brutality.Tolstoy describes how men, full of lofty and petty hopes, just hours before, now lie as corpses or hideously mangled casualties after an artillery battle typical to what he witnessed firsthand.  He conveyed that the men involved, as opposed to the ideal of Truth, could not be said to symbolize good or evil. They made up of the spectrum of human behavior: good bad and ugly. Some were motivated by serving their fellow man and others by vane concerns. Some were men of resolve, others of fickleness. The same could be said of the French.He labels the mid-levels officers sending their fellow men to near-certain death as “petty Napoleons,” implying that they are enemies of each man fighting as much as those wearing opposing uniforms.At the end of this Sketch, Tolstoy focuses on the aftermath of a battle where white flags are raised and time is granted to collect the dead and wounded. The townspeople come out and many of the soldiers converge. Their better natures are manifest. They pat each other on the back, speak of the valour exhibited, and even exchange small gifts like tobacco.Tolstoy expresses that these men are Christians who should all profess the Love of Him above and discard their arms, fall on their knees in repentance, and embrace their brothers in Christ. Yet he acknowledges, this will not happen, as when the flags are raised, the malevolent cycle will repeat itself.

The latter part of this chapter has Nicholas Rostov continuing his parley with Boris and Berg. I broke it into two episodes because the latter section deals with the first interaction between Andrei and Nichols, who surprisingly are not familiar with one another. After Rostov alludes to his award, Boris retrieves the money and letter from Rostov's family. Upon reading a few lines, Rostov hid his face, ashamed he frightened his family over his trivial injury.  Berg then makes the mistake of commenting on Rostov's bounty; as Rostov was given an excuse to turn his frustration at Berg. Berg is asked to temporarily leave and Rostov is free to lament.  Also in the correspondence was a letter of recommendation for a position with General Bagration. However, Rostov throws it away. He  does not want to be anyone's adjutant, which he views as a servant's job.  Boris picks it up and confesses how much he would prefer such a position.     When the wine arrived, Berg was invited back. Over the bottle, the conversation became animated with the friends relaying their adventures, one from the vantage point of  a hussar and  the others from service close to the Imperial family.  Attention soon focuses on how Rostov was hurt. Without any intention of dishonesty, he gave an exaggerated account and conformed his story to expectations of what a cavalry attack would be.  Notably, Rostov couldn't have told the Truth: that he fell off his horse and ran into the woods. Tolstoy is implying that young men who face battle are prone to spin such tales. Rostov goes on to describe the battle at Schöngrabern as a collective memory, incorporating the bravery of those around him.  Rostov fervently relayed how he was aflame with excitement, flying like a hurricane at the French and cutting them down with his saber. He was carried away with lies.  Just as he was saying: “You cannot imagine the frenzy,” Prince Andrei, entered the room, looking for Boris, as he had received a letter from Pierre requesting he help the young lad advance in his career. Andrei took notice of the young braggart.  Already disillusioned by war, Andrei could not stand such boasting. He composed himself and gave Boris a pleasant greeting but frowned at Rostov, who noticed the affront. Boris then inquired of the battle plans. “We shall probably advance,” was Andrei's reply.  Andrei turned to Rostóv and asked him if he was at Schöngrabern.  When Rostov replied he was, Andrei calmly noted: “Yes, there are many stories now told about that affair.” Rostov took the bait, saying “Yes, stories!, But ours are those of  men who have been under fire! Our have some weight, not like the stories of those on the staff who get rewards for doing nothing” “Of whom you imagine me to be one?” retorted Andrei, with an amiable smile. Rostov was irate but recognized his adversary's self-possession. He mustered, “I don't know you and, frankly, I don't want to. I am speaking of the staff in general.”  Andrei calmly continues  “I see you wish to insult me, and it would be very easy to do so if you lack sufficient self-respect, but admit that the time and place are badly chosen as in a day or two we shall all have to take part in a greater duel.”  He added, “you know my name and where to find me, but don't forget that I do not regard either myself or you as having been insulted, and as a man older than you, my advice is to let the matter drop.”   Andrei takes his exit after telling Boris they will speak further after the review.  Rostov soon leaves for his own camp on horseback and dwells on the interaction. He replayed the events, thinking what he ought to have said. He imagines challenging Andrei to a duel and covering him with a pistol. While he wanted to see that small proud man cower, at the same time he realized there was no one else he had come across that he would so much like to have as a friend.  

This chapter begins to highlight the optimism of the Coalition approaching the Battle of Austerlitz. We also experience a rare crossing of the major characters, Nicholas and Andrei. While Nicholas was riding with the Pavlograd Hussars, Boris was serving more comfortably with the Imperial Guard, accompanying Czar Alexander as he traveled toward Olmütz, Moravia, a mostly German speaking enclave of the Holy Roman Empire that sits along a tributary of the Danube River. The allies were uniting in their largest numbers with plans to square off against Napoleon's Grande Armée.   Kutúzov's forces already reached Olmütz while the Guards were stationed 10 miles away.  All units were preparing to be reviewed by Emperors Alexander and Francis II.   Nicholas receives a note from Boris, informing him that Boris arrived with the letter and money from his family. Nicholas was elated as he was dire need of funds and set off at once to find his childhood friend. Rostov's unit was no longer on the run, so his camp swarmed with sutlers (civilian merchants). The Hussars held feast after feast, celebrating and receiving honors. Nicholas attained a promotion to cornet, a relatively low officer's rank.  He also had to buy Denisov's horse, “Bedouin,” after his trusty “Rook” fell in battle. With such expenses, he was in serious debt.  Nicolas is over asking himself – Why am I Here? The morale of his unit infused him with a proud spirit, as he never obtained any personal glory. Nevertheless, he proudly dons his crumpled hussar cap and shabby cadet jacket.  He wishes to appear more seasoned than anyone he will come across.   Commanded by Grand Duke Konstantin Pavlovich, the Imperial Guards made their march west as if on a pleasure trip, with knapsacks on carts and the finest of provisions from Austria. While supplies to Russia's fighting regiments was notoriously poor, the Austrian authorities made sure the Imperial Guard and Emperor were well taken care of.  Everywhere they stopped, bands and fanfare welcomed them and a grand ball was organized.   Boris had marched along and been quartered with Berg, who was promoted to Captain, mostly for competently arranging financial matters. Berg was rising in accord with his ambition.  Boris also had his eyes on advancement, making acquaintance of many of influence. He received a letter of recommendation from Pierre and become acquainted with Andrei, through whom he hoped to gain a post on Kutuzov's staff. Nicholas finds Boris & Berg sitting, clean and neatly dressed, at a table in tidy quarters, playing chess. Nicholas enthusiastically greats them and imitates their old Nurse's mangled French, saying “Petisenfans, allay cushay dormir!” Meaning, Oh children, go to sleep. All can immediately spot how much each has changed. They had not met for half a year and each young man had taken such important steps along life's Road.  Boris rose to meet his old friend and Nicholas initially resisted because he wanted to roughhouse with Boris. Still, Boris acted in accord with etiquette , embracing Nicholas and kissing him three times. They then boisterously exchanged greetings and took notice of the attractive German land-lady. Nicholas points out how both his friend had become dandies.  Soon they ordered wine. Boris soon asks Nicholas about his experiences and if he has been under fire. Without speaking, Nicholas smiled and shook the cross of St. George fastened to his uniform and showcased his  bandaged arm. The background of this award is significant as St. George (of Cappadocian Greek origin) was a 4th Century Roman Soldier who converted to Christianity and was martyred when he would not recant his faith.  There is also a legend he slayed a dragon when a lovely princess was going to be sacrificed to the beast. Paintings and awards often depict his symbolic victory over evil. The figure and tale holds immense significance in Russian history.

This is an introduction to Calvary Maiden, a source Tolstoy used to portray the experiences of soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars. Tolstoy utilized a variety of such works to craft, more than 50 years after the events depicted in War & Peace, the spirit of that first decade and a half of the 19th century.This source material was an unconventional choice as Calvary Maiden contains the journals of a young woman, Nadezhda Andreyevna Durova, who presented as a man to pursue military ambitions. Her material was first published in 1836, well-after her 9 years of service that commenced in 1806. It was rare but not unprecedented for a woman to so serve. However, journaling her experience made Durova the first known woman in the Czar's army. There are considerable embellishments and falsehoods in Durova's work. Most notably, Durova represents that she ran away from her beloved father's home at about 15 to pursue her military career. However, Durova was likely around 22, and her adventures started after a brief marriage and having a son.  The inaccuracies could be attributable to accommodating government censors, pleasing editors, or for a variety of personal reasons. It does appear that when Durova left home, she initially linked up with a Cossack regiment and later joined a series of calvary regiments, obtaining a position as a junior line officer. Durova has a contemporarily relevant ethnic background. She advertises being born of one of the most beautiful women in Ukraine, which had been something of a free state while under Cossack rule, but was dissolved in 1773-74 and dominated by Czars/Czarinas. Durova's maternal grandfather was a Ukrainian civil servant.  At 16, her mother (also named Nadezhda) became enamored with a Muscovite Hussar who traveled to family's small town near Poltova, an Ukrainian city with historical import.  Her Ukrainian grandfather forbade any such match, as would have been customary. Nevertheless, the two eloped and the young couple was able to pursue their own path as military life initially kept them on the move.  Being around this lifestyle very much fascinated her.Durova was firstborn and describes herself as a monstrously ugly infant and the bane of her mother's existence. However, her father (Andrej Durov) is characterized as industrious, loving and kind. It appears Andrej was descended from a low level of Polish nobility.  This would have allowed his male descendants to gain an officer position, which Durova, in her disguise, was able to merit. Durova sheds light on her escape from roles traditionally associated with females of the time, such as: wife, mother, tutor, mistress and hostess. She participated in some of the grand military events of the day and capably describes life in both war and peacetime. She is one of few authors to focus on the latter, the downtime which often makes up the bulk of a soldier's experience.

Though always in their hearts, it had been months since the Rostovs received news of Nicholas. When Count Ilya finally received a letter from his son, he ran his study with it. Anna Drubetskaya, Boris' mother, was living with the family and aimed to be useful. She found Ilya sobbing and laughing. His darling boy suffered a small wound but was promoted. He found this reason to thank God. Still, he wonders how to tell his wife of the injury. Anna therefore took the rest of the day preparing the Countess. Young Natasha convinced Anna to reveal the nature of the letter and promised to keep it secret. She broke her word right away, telling Sonya (who is devoted to Nicholas) as well as her little brother, Petya. Sonya cried and Natasha comforted her -- noting it was just “a little wound.” Petya takes the missive with resolve and adds how he would have “killed many Frenchmen.” Natasha asks Sonya, “Do you remember Nicholas?” She means in the sense of holding the same feelings. Sonya reveals, “I am in love with your brother and whatever may happen, shall never cease to love him.” Natasha no longer feels the same about Boris.  Her childlike love has faded. Natasha knew there was such love as Sonya was describing, but never experienced it. They discuss whether it would be proper for Sonya to write Nicholas and reference his commitment. Sonya decides that if she is mentioned in the letter, she will write. Natasha does not have any compulsion to write Boris as she feels it would just come out awkward. Pétya reveals Natasha has developed affections for the new Count Bezúkhov as well as her Italian singing coach.  After dinner, the Countess was in her room focused on a portrait of Nicholas. Anna arrived with the letter while Ilya listened through a keyhole. There was crying, silence, then voices in happy intonation. Anna opened the door and exhibited a proud expression. Anna embraced her husband and in came Véra, Natasha, Sonya and Pétya. All went over the letter. There was a description of the campaign, battles and the promotion. Nicholas sent his love and asked for his parents' blessings. He sent a special greeting to “dear Sónya, whom he loved and thought of just the same as ever.” When Sonya heard this, she blushed, cried and ran to the dancing hall, where she whirled around at full speed.The practical Vera asked, “Why are you crying, Mamma? One should be glad and not cry.” This was true but not wise to express. She was reproached by the family while her mother thought, “and who is it she takes after?”The letter was read over among tutors, nurses and servants. Each time the Countess did so with fresh pleasure.  She contemplated how incredible it was that her son, once a scarcely perceptible motion under her heart, who had learned to say little words, was now away in a foreign land doing warrior's work as a model officer. It was the universal experience - showing how children imperceptibly grow from the cradle to manhood. Yet it does not exist for a mother. Her boy's growth, at each stage, seemed as extraordinary to her as if it never existed in others. She thought, “What style! and “what a heart and soul!” She noticed how Nicholas barely wrote of his exploits and sufferings, but mentions Denísov and others.A bountiful response would come from the family, as a new officer needs supplies which are NOT paid for by the army. Preparations were being made, along drafts of letters.  6,000 rubles was collected. There was a question of how to reach Nicholas as he was on the move and the postal system was notoriously ill-managed.Anna would prove her worth yet again in conveying the material. She had curried favor with authorities (couriers for Grand Duke Constantine Pávlovich, a historic figure and elder brother of Alexander I) to secure a means of communication to reach Boris, who would convey any package to Nicholas. 

Once separated for the evening, Anatole fell right asleep. The charmed women did not.Marya considered, “Is he really to be my husband? This stranger who is so kind.”   However, she soon feels the force of evil near her as a Satanic image mixed with Anatole's. She rang for her maid, asking her to sleep in her room. Lise grumbled how uncomfortable she was in bed. Anatole's presence reminded her of when she was not impacted by pregnancy and loneliness. Amélie Bourienne walked about the winter garden, working out this scenario where she would allow herself to be seduced, then try to win Anatole with a story about how her poor mother's ghost shamed her. Conveying this would hopefully guilt Anatole into marrying her. Such projection contrasts with Marya, who would never so play with spirits.  Bolkonsky could not sleep and reflected, “The first man that turns up—she forgets her father and becomes so unlike herself!”   He is disappointed Marya did not have the pride to see Anatole's nature.  He considers casting off Bourienne and aims to reveal the truth, in part, to convince Marya not to leave Bald Hills.  The next morning, Anatole and Amélie recognized how much each had to “say” to the other. They took the opportunity to rendezvous in the garden when Marya went to meet her father.  Marya was told, “I have a proposition and refer it to you. Prince Vasíli finds you to his taste as a daughter-in-law and makes a proposal to you on his protégé's behalf.” Marya asks for her father's input but realizes he does not approve.  He informs her Anatole will take her dowry and bring Bourienne into the marriage. Marya become despondent and her father feigned speaking in jest.  He advises Marya to take an hour to pray over the matter and adds, “Remember that your happiness depends on your decision. He receives his orders from his father and will marry you or anybody; but you are free to choose.”Mary wishes to accept but what her father said had an impact.   An invisible force led her into the conservatory, where she recognized the whispering of Amélie.  A few steps away, she saw Anatole fully embracing the French woman. Marya was shocked. Amélie screamed and ran off. Anatole composed himself, bowed with a smirk, as if inviting Marya to join in a laugh and retreated.Marya was summoned an hour later as she comforted Amélie. She gazed at Amélie with tender affection and stroked her hair. Amélie was apologetic, “You who are so pure… can never understand being so carried away.”  Marya responded, “I love you more than ever and will do all I can for your happiness.” She then she went to address Anatole's father.Vasíli was optimistic.  “My dear! My son's fate is in your hands. Decide, my gentle Marie, whom I have always loved as a daughter!” Bolkonsky put the matter bluntly, “Do you wish or not to be Prince Anatole Kurágin's wife? Reply and then I reserve the right to state my opinion.”   Marya answered, “My desire is never to leave you, Father.”  Vasíli did not relent, “Will you not give us a little hope of touching your heart? Say ‘perhaps'... The future is so long.” Marya continued, “Prince, I have said all in my heart. I thank you for the honor but shall never be your son's wife.” Bolkonsky then steered Vasíli out the door and sends Marya to her room. “Well, so that's finished, my dear fellow! I am very glad to have seen you.”Marya contemplated, “My vocation is to be content with another kind of happiness, of love and self-sacrifice. Cost what it may, I will arrange poor Amélie's happiness as she loves Anatole so passionately and repents. I will give her the means; I will ask my father and Andrei. I shall be so happy when she is his wife. She has been so unfortunate, alone and helpless! And how she must love him if she could so forget herself! Perhaps I might have done the same!”

Marya comes from her room to meet Anatole and is quickly smitten by his attractiveness. He introduced himself and stood smiling with his chest expanded. He was hardly eloquent but had the invaluable faculty of composure. He knew he inspired curiosity, awe and lust.   Marie wished to convey that she did not expect to interest him.  The conversation became genial thanks to Lise.   Speaking French, she drew all into her stories.  Shaking a finger at Anatole, she reveals, “I have heard of your doings in Paris!” With Paris referenced, Bourienne jumped in and Anatole thought, “la petite est gentile.” Bolkonsky remained in his study, considering how Vasíli is a shallow soul with his son likely in the same mold. Their presence brought up whether he could  part from the daughter he cherished. “Why should she marry? To be unhappy?” He thought of Lise, thinking a better husband than his son could not be found.  Still, Lise was not content.   He realized some women remain happier and have more agency unmarried. He also demanded any suitor be worthy.  As Vasíli stepped in to drag Pierre into marriage, Bolkonsky is preparing to keep Marya out.   Upon meeting his guests, Bolkonsky noticed Anatole flirting with Bourienne and already felt Marya was playing the fool.   He went up to Vasíli, exchanged pleasantries and discussed news of the war, but soon broke off to chastise his daughter for her new look, reducing her to tears. Bolkonsky then addressed Anatole and spoke in a way where Anatole felt compelled to hold back laughter. “My dear boy…So, you wish to serve the Tsar and the country? It is wartime, such a fine fellow must serve. Well, are you off to the front?” In responding, Anatole must ask his father what unit he is attached to, which confirms Bolkonsky's suspicions of his quality.   Nevertheless, as soon as Vasíli got Bolkonsky alone, Vasíli announced his hopes. Bolkonsky said he would ask Marya tomorrow in everyone's presence. If she is willing, Anatole can “stay on,” but still notes “I'll see,” implying he would be the final arbiter.  Vasíli adds “I will tell you frankly, Anatole is no genius, but he is an honest, goodhearted lad, excellent son, and would be no less a relative.” Anatole remains busy entertaining the women of the House.  Attributable to their loneliness, all were charmed. Even Marya forgot her plainness. Anatole seemed out of a dream:  kind, confident, masculine, and magnanimous. Aspirations of a family rose in Marya's imagination. “Am I too cold with him? I remain reserved because in the depth of my soul I feel too near to him already.” In contrast, Anatole thought, “Poor girl, she's devilish ugly!”   Bourienne's passions were also spurred. Without any status, relatives, or even a country, she did not intend to devote her life to serving Bolkonsky. She dreamed of a prince like this who would appreciate her looks and fall in love.   Her aunt had told her about such scenarios. It was not calculation that guided her as she didn't have the sense to plan.  She just wished to try to please the man before her. Anatole was cognizant of his power and the feeling that most intensely rose was a passionate lust for Bourienne. Mary was soon asked to play on the clavichord. Her favorite sonata bore her into animated poetic world. In her lovely eyes there was a look of hope and joy. Anatole faced Marie but concentrated on Bourienne.  Mary would look at  Bourienne, thinking, “How happy I am now, and how happy I may be with such a friend and such a husband! When it came to retire, Anatole kissed Marya's hand. He did the same to Bourienne, which was a breach of protocol. She flushed as Marya considered, “Is it possible Amélie thinks I could be jealous of her, and not value her devotion.”  Lastly, Anatole went up to Lise and they had a playful interaction to close the night.  

In August of 1908, when 80 years old, Tolstoy penned the open letter, “The Blessings of Love,” referring to the Love which embodies the Almighty. Tolstoy wrote much, later-in-life, about his religious convictions, but this episode will focus on this relatively short letter addressed to “Good People Everywhere.”Tolstoy explicitly introduces the concept of divine Love in War & Peace through Mayra reaching out in prayer when she faces the temptation for physical pleasure when Anatole pays a courting visit.  She feels the Lord has placed in her heart the direction to orient herself around heavenly Love. She is reminded to focus on the Lord's command of Love: meaning commitment to others as demonstrated by God's willingness to sacrifice his Son.  Tolstoy begins his missive with special appeal to those “fighting on behalf of one government or another, which nobody needs.”   He specifically reaches out to his “Dear Brothers” including: “King, Minister, Merchant, Worker, and Peasant.”He notes that the further he reaches in life, the more it becomes clear that we need to focus on this transcendent Love. Tolstoy proffers that our earthly toils distract us from this obligation; but it is what the Lord desires for our short indeterminate lifespans, which lie between the voids of pre-birth and post-death. Tolstoy, believing his end was immanent, was acknowledging the transience and fragility of terrestrial life. He did not dread the prospect of death, but viewed it as natural and beneficial, like one day passing into another. He writes that our lives have such potential for joy, where we can appreciate the heavens and nature, with a stewardship for what is before us. Instead, we wind up creatures constructing buildings, factories and roads, often for the latest commerce system that mass produces items Tolstoy believes nobody needs.  Such industrial demands create pollution and sicken workers (physically and mentally), who dwell in the slums of the early 20th century.  In mining pursuits, Tolstoy emphasizes, somewhat metaphorically, how workers descend into the earth to extract stones and iron. This stands in contrast to looking upwards and outwards – towards the divine. Instead of living joyfully and being prone to God's bounty, we hate, kill, harass and accumulate. Some utilitarian masters-of-the-day claim to be guided by a greater good. Others are influenced by habit, tradition, or imitation.  However, without focus on the divine, so many have been reduced to fighting like animals, and live a perversion of what life should be.Ultimately, we must do what coincides with the demands of our soul, namely to act in the spirit of brotherly Love.  Tolstoy proposes: let the those fighting for so-called freedom or order, put a tinge of their efforts toward living out this Love.   He is confident everyone will see the fruits of their labor and experience a bliss. Even if you try it for a day, it will make you unlikely to turn back.   For Love transcends death.   He appears to be referencing popular Gospel teachings, such as to live to accumulate treasures in heaven, instead of riches on earth, which will inevitably perish.  For divine Love is eternal.Tolstoy concludes that all of his fame, wealth, and devices of social life are trivial compared to the Love the soul demands. Therefore, we are to live with sacrificial intent.  Such a life is open to us and calls.

Nicholas Bolkónski receives a letter from Vasíli Kuragin, who would be visiting with his prodigal son, Anatole. This is a suitor for Marya. Bolkónski always held a poor opinion of Vasíli, but this view converted into an utter contempt.  On the morning Vasíli was to arrive, the head serf, Alpátych, deferentially explained that he had the path swept of snow after being informed a “minister” was arriving. Bolkónski exploded, “A minister? Who gave orders to sweep? For me, there are no ministers!” He does not want Vasíli to receive special treatment. Bolkónski swung a walking stick near Alpátych and shouted, “Throw the snow back on the road!” At mealtime, Amélie Bourienne brings up the impending visit and Bolkónski references how he got Vasíli his initial governmental position. He alludes, with disdain, to the obvious reason for the visit.  Bourienne changes the subject to flowers in the conservatory. This, along with the soup, placated Bolkónski. Later Bolkónski went to check on Lise, who avoided the meal under the pretense of her pregnancy. He asked how she was feeling. Lise, who pregnancy made plain, lived in trepidation, but grew accustomed to life and took a fancy to Bourienne. Bolkónski then visited his head serf. Alpátych relayed the snow was shoveled back and pleaded, “Forgive me..... It was only my stupidity.” “All right,” responded Bolkónski and stretched out his hand to be kissed.Vasíli and Anatole arrived that evening and were met by servants, who had to drag the sleighs and baggage over re-laden snow. Once settled, Anatole became at ease. He regarded life as a continual round of amusement and realized, why not marry her if she has so much money? He shaved, scented himself and held his head high as he approached his father. He asks, “Father, is she truly hideous?” He is rebuked, “Enough! Remember, for you everything depends on this.”Marya, in contrast, sat alone in her room, forlorn. Lise and Bourienne had a better sense of how to make an elegant presentation and put heartfelt effort into preparing Marya, acting with the naïve conviction that dress or hairstyle could make a face pretty. Marya was so plain that nothing helped. Neither thought of her as a rival in terms of beauty. Marya remained piteous and her companions eventually retreated. Alone, Marya let her mind wander and dreamed of a husband, a dominant attractive man. She dreamed of the joy of physical relations and fancied nursing her own child, with her husband gazing tenderly. However, the visualization broke and she realized, “I am too unattractive.” She was soon summoned to meet Anatole. She felt appalled at what she had been thinking and went to the nearby prayer room, where she fixed her eyes on an icon of her Savior. A painful thought filled her soul, Could the joy of love, earthly love for a man, be for her? With a handsome guest invading the threshold, this deeply hidden longing revealed itself. Instead of trying take steps to satisfy her desire, she appeals in prayer: Oh Lord… How am I to renounce these vile fancies, so as peacefully to fulfill Thy will?”  God placed the answer in her heart, revealing that she was to focus on divine love, that selfless love motivated by commitment to others, as demonstrated by God being willing to sacrifice his Son. The Lord continues, Desire nothing for thyself… be not envious or fearful. The future and thy own fate must remain hidden, but live so that thou mayest be ready for anything. If it be God's will for thee to marry, be ready to fulfill His will. With this consolation, Princess Marya crossed herself and was mentally prepared to present herself, thinking no more of superficialities, as nothing could matter in comparison with the will of God.

This second and final part of the first Sevastopol Sketch takes you from the Assembly Hall to the artillery fortifications/bastions.After taking in the majestic sky, you are brought back to earth, to the vulgarity of war.  A funeral procession marches by. The music and banners cover up the beastliness you observed in the Hall.  You reach the lively city center and pass inns, shops and street merchants. You notice the variety of officers, many finding relief in alcohol. You overhear the musings of soldiers covering the latest battles, logistics, leadership, and field conditions. Causalities are relayed with the ease of giving weather updates. The tales of these men will be told for generations. You hear reports from the infamous 4th bastion, which is spoken of with transcendent reverence. Those in the most critical positions find themselves best able to focus on the task at hand, much like the fictional Captain Tushin at the Battle of Shongräben.You drift towards the bastions amidst a frozen mist on an avenue destroyed by artillery. You notice pierced roofs and broken windows. A stone walkway gives way to crude boards and beams. As you near and ascend a steep hill, officers (in groups of four) are hauling the wounded on stretchers. Near the top of the hill, you observe the action as bullets whiz about. Below is a trench of foul-smelling muck that leads to more directly to the bastions. There is an elevated path on the hill, but it exposes you.  You nevertheless use it as the alternative is dreadful. In a few hundred paces you reach a battery and notice broken guns and cannon balls. Artillery whistles and thuds about you. For a moment, you believe you reached the 4th Bastion. However, it is the relatively safer Yazonovsky Redoubt.   After a short stay, you traverse a narrow trench leading you to the infamous stronghold. You pass sharp-shooters eating, smoking and chatting. Others are playing cards. This is their home and they make the best of their lot. A soldier of the 4th Bastion takes interest in you and tries to ease your nerves. There seems to be only one large working cannon in a battery, which a naval officer demonstrates the use of. Much was destroyed the day before. The enemy (French) are only 30 to 40 fathoms away. 60-80 yards.  Naval officers are working the smaller guns. These wrinkled and sunburned men have wide shoulders, powerful torsos and stout legs. Their resolve is unimpeachable. A naval officer appears to have killed two of the enemy and you absorb their countenance, craving for revenge. Balls of death volley your way and the earth shatters. There are showers of dirt, stones and debris. Some of your own become casualties.You expect the next shell will end your life, but it passes and you become exuberant. You dare the enemy to strike you!You visualize a dying man being carried. His face is imbued with exaltation. His eyes shine bright as he uses all his energy to hold his head up. In a trembling voice, he says – Farewell brothers.   You are transfixed by the valiance of the men as you take your leave – they are the defenders of Sevastopol. They are unwavering in spirit and demonstrate unparalleled courage under fire. This is the dynamic in the early days of the Siege - when holding out was viewed as a military impossibility. However, there was still no chance of a surrender. It was an effort worthy of the heroes of Greece. 

Prince Vasíli is on the precipice of enticing Pierre to ask for his daughter's hand.   He hardly let a day go by without hosting an event at which Pierre was present. For six weeks, the new Count was lured into making a home of Vasíli's mansion.   Vasíli was planning to get two of his children married, Anatole as well as Hélène.  Vasíli felt compelled to finalize matters with Pierre before touring his neglected provincial estates. He then desired to pick-up Anatole from his regiment and take him to Smolensk to arrange a match with Gen. Bolkónski's daughter.  Pierre's conduct was as a young lover's should be - excited and foolish. Vasíli thought, “Youth, frivolity... God be with him.” He surmised the right time to push for resolution was at Hélène's upcoming name-day celebration. Pierre's mixed emotions persisted. He realized how devastating it could be to tie his fate to Hélène. Yet he had no ability to leave her orbit. He was overpowered by desire. In Society's eyes Pierre was more and more connected with Hélène. All were waiting for him to propose. Terror seized Pierre upon realizing how close he was.  When the celebration arrived, the guests included close friends and family. All were in high spirits. Vasíli merrily went round the table, chatting about the Imperial Council, where the military governor read a missive about the war from Czar Alexander.  The governor was overjoyed the letter was directed to him.   As much as such trifling interests united the aristocrats, all this was sideshow to Pierre and Hélène. Pierre found the dynamic intoxicating. He thought, “They are all expecting it, so…I cannot disappoint them!”  He considered himself a Paris possessed of Helen of Troy.  Deep down, Pierre knew that only since becoming the Count did he receive favor.  Still, in the moment, he believed that it was he who was unusually striking. He was taken out of this mindset when Vasíli asked when he last heard from Andrei, who had written from Olmütz.    After supper, Pierre & Hélène followed others to the drawing room.  Pierre had had never spoke to Hélène of love but knew it was time to.  He first made some small talk. Vasíli, hovering, came up to them and again brought up the proud governor. Pierre smiled and gave a look that assured he was doing what was expected. In the next room, the Kuragin family spoke on how “marriages are made in heaven.”   The couple kept the family waiting and eventually Vasíli lost patience and decided to drag Pierre across the line. Vasíli's manifested a triumphant countenance upon his approach and congratulated Pierre on what Pierre could not bring himself to do.  He proclaimed, “Thank God! My wife has told me everything!” (though his wife did no such thing). He put his arms around the two and continued, “My dear boy... Lëlya... I am very pleased. I loved your father...and she will make you a good wife...God bless you!” He embraced and kissed them.    Pierre reflected. “All this had to be…so it is useless to ask whether it is good or bad.”  At least he was rid of the doubt.  Pierre held Hélène's hand and confidently called her name.  He knew “something special is always said in such cases”. He looked deep into her eyes and she drew nearer to him and told him to take of his spectacles.  Pierre did so and was about to stoop and kiss her hand but with a rapid movement of her head, Hélène intercepted his lips with her own.  “It is too late now, it's done, besides I love her,” thought Pierre. He then uttered those forgotten special words, Je vous aime, but they sounded so weak he was ashamed.   Six weeks later Pierre was married, and settled in his newly furnished Petersburg mansion.

The first Sevastopol Sketch focuses on December of 1854. Sevastopol is a name of Greek origin and is a well-known port city in Crimea. Before it was Ukrainian -- and before it was Russian or under Russian occupation -- it was part of the Crimean Khanate, heavily influenced by the Ottomans. Greek names were stamped on conquered cities just north of the Black Sea (think also Melitopol, Mariupol, and Kherson) by Czars & Czarinas as a show of respect for Greek culture. Notably, Greeks had a presence there going back thousands of years.The first Sketch focuses on a sunrise to sunset amidst the Siege. We take in Sevastopol through the perspective of an officer and get closer to the infamous bastions as the day goes on. Around 8 a.m., you (the officer) take notice of the rising sun above Sapun Ridge, which rises 240 meters.  There is a changing of the guard, a soldier washing his face in frigid water, as well as doctors and nurses reporting to their stations. Life gets moving amidst the backdrop of death, which you can observe through wagons transporting the departed.   You traverse a muddy beach, passing over a dead horse, and get into a small boat pulled by an old man and boy.  The vessel sails around a disabled warship and soon reaches a wharf near the city center.  Sevastopol remains a traditional city but has also become a war encampment.   The surface bears the scars of cannon fire. There is a bustle – smoking, chatting, gambling and arguing.   You take in: Cossacks with their horses, women with their children, and trades-folk.  All their faces express enthusiasm in carrying on. Nobody is paralyzed by fear.  Most importantly, you approach the Sevastopol Assembly Hall, which is serving as a hospital. You enter to the sights, sounds and smell of the wounded. Some are in hammocks, but the majority are on the floor. You are overcome through absorbing the pervasive suffering. You address a few of the men and they respond to your empathy. You meet one who lost his leg, who graciously thanks God that he will get his discharge. He tells you that it is best not to dwell.  You come across housewives, one visiting her husband and another who was severely wounded while delivering food to her husband. You come across a blonde man with swollen face and labored breathing who is near death. You sense his internal fire of pain. You see an old gaunt solder changing his clothes.  His body displays a lifetime of hardship. You can't find words to convey your admiration.You take in the horrors of the operating area.  Sleepless doctors are at work administering chloroform and hacking limbs.   You see repeated -- the placing a sharp curved knife into a healthy part of the body and the men coming to with piercing cries. What follows is an arm or leg being thrown onto a pile.  The men in queue for such treatment obsess over the terror that lies ahead.    Tolstoy's point is that such is the reality of War, not the music and drum beats and gallantry, and waving flags. This is the grim nature of suffering and death.  You leave and head to an actual bastion.  You reflect on what you observed and grasp your insignificance.  You take a moment to behold the majestic sky -- The Lord's sky. For any War & Peace reader, this scene bring to mind Andrei on the field of Austerlitz, gazing from the grass at the brilliant sky. Your mind soars above the fine city with a lovely church; and Your mind is restored.

Note: There are NO spoilers in the the 2nd Epilogue to War & Peace, which is analyzed in bonus chapters. This final part of the novel involves a metaphysical exploration of the philosophy underlying W&P.This is a complex chapter easy to get lost in.  Tolstoy wrestles with one of his common themes -- Are people led or are they ready to move and inevitably pops up someone to guide them in the direction they were going?Tolstoy emphasizes that the life of the nations is not symbolically expressed by the lives of great men such as like Napoleon, Czar Alexander or Kutuzov. Thus, Napoleon cannot be said to sum up the French people at the turn of the 19th Century. It is people themselves who are always the story of their times!Tolstoy proffers that prominent historians/academics tend to teach, using animals as an allegory for historical movements — a herd of cattle goes in a direction because the animal in front leads and the collective will of the others vest in that leader; and if the one at the top changes, it is because of another transfer of collective will. Tolstoy preaches there is a false appeal in believing any such theory. For the academic, watching the aforesaid herd, pays no attention to the varying quality of the cows in different parts of the field or the driving of the herdsman. Such assessments are made with the benefit of hindsight and attribution of bias. Academics tend to prop up figures they find important based on values they wish to advance.Historians are mistaken when they regard historical persons, from monarchs to artists to journalists, as expressions of their age. A significant aspect of power lies with the people. The responsibility for what happens in this world, remains with each of us. Tolstoy then explores concept of “power” and how that word is understood. When we look at what causes historical events, we cannot help but incorporate this force.  “Power” is something you can't see – as you can visualize a cannon or statue -- yet it exists. There is an ineffability of the word. Yet we all give “power” significance because of our ability to reason and life experience.  Whenever a major event occurs, a man will appear by whose will it took place. To him we attach power. Examples given are: Napoleon III issues a decree and the French go to Mexico; the Kings of Prussia and Bismarck issue decrees and an army enters Bohemia; Napoleon I issues a decree Russia is invaded; Alexander I gives a command and the French submit to the Bourbons. However, reflection shows that it is more than such words that moves men. A prominent man's orders are only part of the story, as there is also the physical act of the multitudes agreeing and going along.History shows that a monarch's expression of the will often produces no effect, as such commands are often not executed; and other times the very opposite of what is ordered occurs. Power, from the standpoint of experience, is better defined as the relation that exists between the expression of someone's will and the execution of that will by others. When there is a bilateral relationship – then there can be said to be power!     Tolstoy ends the chapter referencing an ancient school of thought, where historians took for granted a divine role in human affairs. When a deity issues a command, the expression of that will is independent of time and is not caused by anything, for divinity is not controlled or tied down by our concept of power. He finds the ancients more useful than most academics with respect to studying the nature of power and causality.

Part III of Book I focuses on Pierre. We are taken off the battlefield. The attitude has changed toward the new Count Bezúkhov, with this section serving as a critique on the vane pursuits of men within Tolstoy's own class. Instead of retreating after being foiled in his attempt to usurp Pierre's estate, Vassily uses his proximity to become Pierre's mentor.  He even uses his daughter, Hélène, to attract  Pierre's focus. The description of Vassily is as a true man of this world. His heart is so corrupted, he barely notices the sins he commits throughout the day.  Schemes consume his existence. He had dozens going on at once, in various stages.   Pierre's life is turned on its head – no longer neglected, he was always signing papers, making appearances and visiting his estates. So quickly did those who thought him foolish become convinced of his nobility. He was lured into a state of intoxication - as though he were the center of an important movement. Vassily procured fancy titles for Pierre, one being “Gentleman of the Bedchamber” Камер-юнкер (Kammer-junker) which conferred the status of “Councilor of State.”   Pierre's relationship changed with the “three princesses” who lived in his father's mansion. He showed them mercy, letting them stay and granting Vassily's request to endow the eldest with 30,000 rubles.  It seemed so natural to Pierre that everyone love him and he could not help believing their sincerity. Vassily had the air of a man oppressed by business, who would not leave a helpless youth to the designs of OTHER rogues. Vassily had Pierre accompany him to St. Petersburg, on the way telling him a “diplomatic career now lies open before you.”  As he used pleasing words, Vissily siphoned thousands of rubles collected from Pierre's peasants.  Pierre found a similar atmosphere in Petersburg -- bewilderment, bustle and continual expectation among aristocratic acquaintances.    Many of his friends were confronting the War.  He was aware that Anatole, Andrei and Dólokhov were abroad. Much of his time was taken up with dinners and balls but chiefly he was at Prince Vasssily's, mansion, spending time with Hélène.  Pierre received one of Anna Pávlovna's invitations, which noted “You will find the beautiful Hélène here.” Pierre realized the growing link between them was noticed by others. Anna, who hosted the event that got the novel moving, was symbolic of the change of attitude. She now found Pierre charming in every way. At her gala, a diplomat from Berlin explained the latest alliance between Czar Alexander and Frederik William III, who conferred in Potsdam. Anna arranges for Pierre to stay close to Hélène. “Isn't she exquisite?” Anna said to Pierre, as she glided about. “And how she carries herself! Such masterly perfection of manner! Happy the man who wins her!”  Anna ensures they will both entertain Anna's elderly aunt. Hélène quickly gave Pierre her smile that none forgot. The conversation among the three was dull – as the aunt spoke of a collection of snuffboxes. Helene wore a lovely dress cut very low at front and back.  The two were very close and had an unspoken conversation. “So, you have never noticed before how beautiful I am? Yes, I am a woman who may belong to anyone—to you too.”  At that moment Pierre felt that Hélène must be his wife. Hélène already had power over him and he realized this may NOT be a good thing. Pierre could not sleep that night. He considered,  “Yes, she's good looking…but there is something vile, something wrong… I have been told that her brother Anatole was in love with her and she with him, that there was quite a scandal and that that's why he was sent away.  And Hippolyte is her brother... Prince Vassily is her father... It's bad....”  In considering her worthlessness, he nevertheless envisioned Hélène as his wife and how she would love him and become quite different.

This episode examines Tolstoy's influences in the sense that Tolstoy takes attitudes from major events of his day, including the humiliating defeat of the Crimean War of 1856, and imposes them on his characters.  Tolstoy was conceptualizing and writing War & Peace in the 1850s and 60s, when liberal reforms were being pursued. Tolstoy therefore brings an idealism to his rendition of the victory over Napoleon in 1812.  The episode also has a brief review of Part 1 of Book 1 to ready the reader to take on Part 3, as many major characters were absent from Part 2.Over the first two parts of Book 1, there is a contrast of storing-telling. Part 1 involves the more relatable domestic affairs of high society combined with an eye toward Napoleon's advances in the Summer of 1805.  Part 2 is a historical exposition of the acceleration of the War of the Third Coalition during the Fall of 1805.    War & Peace is the product of thousands of pages of drafts as well as the unfinished works, “The Distant Field” and “The Decembrists.”   Greater exposition of this process is detailed on the 1996 book by Kathryn B. Feuer, “Tolstoy and the Genesis of War and Peace.”The Decembrist Revolt was a failed movement some characters of War & Peace would have been involved with after the story ends. The rebellion occurred after Emperor Alexander died in 1825 and one of the goals was to replace the autocracy of Czar with a Constitutional monarchy.  Many involved were executed or sent to Siberia. Exiles were only released around 1856, when reforms sought in 1825 were being re-evaluated. In one sense, this novel involves men similar to Pierre and Andrei, who could not imagine what they were being thrown into in 1805 and ultimately became Decembrists 20 years later.Pierre, who can described as "the heart" of the novel, unpredictably inherits the largest fortune in the country, and was exposed to the ideals of his time. He pursued the goal of absorbing and implementing the best of reforms. That is perhaps the greatest hero journey of War & Peace.Tolstoy also takes the reader back to when serfs were conscripted to fight in the major wars, which he witnessed the final stages of. Ironically, it was the serfs contact with Central and Western Europe that highlighted Russian authorities could no longer keep citizens tied to the land. Later in the novel, you will meet the symbolic Platon Karataev, a simple serf, who lives in the moment with a wisdom and decency that escapes members of Tolstoy's class.Yet the enduring nature of this work is how it did not result in a novel centered on politics or history, but became a work of morality and even spirituality.  War & Peace also presents number of everlasting contrasts beyond class, including traditional values v. reform and urban/government centers v. the countryside.   The latter aspect involves Tolstoy's descriptions of cultured landowners, who he believes should manage their estates as if there are Garden of Edens.

Bagration's men held off the French for as long as practical and retreated in the darkness. The goal was to fight until the sun went down.Tushin accompanied the working guns and encountered officers as well as some wounded. He was overwhelmed with grief, having come down from his heroic effort.  Orders were to leave the wounded but those affected felt it best to keep up with the retreat. Among the injured was Nicholas Rostov, pleading for a seat on the gun carriage. Tushin gave him a spot.They reached the village of Gruntersdorf and heard a nearby skirmish that repelled the French for the final time. Sounds from a gloomy river were overshadowed by hoofs, wheels and groans of the wounded. The soldiers became agitated amidst confusing orders. All remained stationary on the muddy road and fires were lit. From pain and cold, a feverish shivering overtook Rostov. His eyes were transfixed by the dazzlingly red fire. Tushin held great sympathy for the young man. Other soldiers appealed to Tushin for courtesies such as a spot at the fire, water, or moving his carriage a trifle, all which he accommodated. In contrast, two nearby soldiers quarreled over a boot.Tushin was summoned by Prince Bagration, who was nearby with other commanders. Bagration was offering platitudes and getting updates. His gathering included the stubborn general who was in the standoff, who was now flushed by vodka and enjoying dinner. Also present was Zherkóv and Andrei. In a corner stood the accountant, shaking his head. It dawned on him that he had no place on the battlefield. Close by was a French colonel taken prisoner.The general in the standoff relayed what he had wished to have done. “When I saw, Your excellency, that their first battalion was disorganized, I stopped…and thought: ‘I'll let them come on and will meet them with the fire of the whole battalion!” So much chaos enveloped the situation that he convinced himself of what he said. Zherkov joined in the congratulatory banter. Bagration praised all divisions but inquired how the guns in the center were abandoned. He turned to the staff officer initially sent to Tushin, who could only relay how contentious the battle was. Tushin then presented himself. While Tushin was Herculean in the field, he was rendered timid. He stumbled over a captured French standard and was laughed at. Confronted, he felt undeserved guilt and could only offer, “I don't know... Your excellency... I had no men.”Andrei came to his defense, noting he found most of Tushin's men and horses knocked out, two guns smashed, and no support. He announced, “We owe today's success chiefly to the action of that battery and the heroic endurance of Captain Tushin and his company.” Andrei left the table and depression enveloped him over the reality of war being so unlike what he envisioned.This section closes by centering on Rostov's thoughts as sat by the fire. “When will all this end?” Rostov closed his eyes thinking rest could quell his pain. He envisioned his mother's care for him, Sónya's love and Natasha's laughter. He compared this to current life, which included Captain Denísov as well as Telyánin and the affair over the stolen money. When able to sleep, nightmares would manifest that soldiers were pulling his wounded arm. He opened his eyes and noticed flakes of snow. “There is no one to help me or pity me. Yet I was once at home, strong, happy, and loved.” As Rostov absorbed the snowflakes and reflected on winters at home. He thought of his gliding sleigh, fur coat, and affection of his family. “And why did I come here?”The next day the French army did not renew their attack and the remnants of Bagration's detachment was reunited with Kutuzov's army.

In his Sevastopol Sketches, Tolstoy develops his ability to depict the reality of death within military conflict.   His proficiency stemmed from experience. Most notably, Tolstoy's military service included three years in the Caucuses and action during the Crimean War (1853-56), both as a junior artillery officer.During his time near Chechnya (north of Georgia and west of Dagestan), Tolstoy observed such brutal Russian tactics as punitive raids and the indiscriminate the shelling of small villages. He was also affected by the burning of forests to deny Chechens cover.  This area hosts a Muslim population by reason of Ottoman influence.  Russia has attempted to purge Chechens from what Russia claimed as a southern frontier multiple times and this area remains filled with tension – an inheritance of the aforementioned rivalry. With respect to the Crimean War, in 1853, Czar Nicholas declared war on the Ottoman Empire, Russia's historical rival.  Nicholas asserted the obligation to protect Christians in Ottoman territory and reasserted land-claims in the Danubian principalities. Russian leadership has long-wished to retake Istanbul (Constantinople), which was a center of Christianity for centuries. Napoleon III was at the forefront of the response to the Czar's ambitions in 1853. A coalition (Turks, French & English) united to neutralize Russian expansion and protect the balance of power in Europe. It was hardly lost on Tolstoy that Russia served as a similar bulwark against Napoleon I. Tolstoy lived through the great humiliation of losing of the Crimean War but immortalized one of Russia's great triumphs (repelling Napoleon I in 1812), which makes the great influences on him A Tale of Two Napoleons. A thread through The Sevastopol Sketches and War & Peace is that Tolstoy conveys war's horrific nature.  He does not glorify the subject. The Sketches involve three vignettes of the Siege: November of 1854, May of 1855; and August of 1855.   It was late in the Summer of 1855 when Sevastopol finally fell after an 11-month attack.   The Sketches read like a novella.   The first takes the reader on tour of Sevastopol – from the relative safety of a particular bay, through an infirmary, marketplace, and finally toward the front line. Notably, we are taken inside the Assembly Hall -- a make-shift hospital that is filled with causalities and disease.  Tolstoy then depicts the activity of soldiers and citizens. He discusses merchants going about their trade as well as carriage drivers delivering goods and transporting the dead. The second vignette delves into the senseless vanity of war and pursuit of truth, which Tolstoy describes as the hero of any effort. The last and longest story provides a view of the end of the Siege, through the eyes of fictional brothers. We are given a glimpse of the spectacle of incoming and outgoing artillery, the charges of the allies, and the valiant defense. Amidst the Crimean war, Czar Nicholas died in March of 1855 and Alexander II took the throne, who hold the reputation of a reformer. There was societal reflection that so much of the fighting was done by serfs tied to the land. These serfs were exposed to ideas of freedom and nationhood and there was a national reckoning that their system could not stand.  The serfs (over 20 million souls) were freed in 1861.Tolstoy also proceeds on one of his great explorations - regarding the cause of historical events. He finds that people hold the ultimate power and are somehow (all at once), ready to be moved. This is opposed to the theory a few great leaders move men.   Lastly, the experience of the Crimean War transformed Tolstoy from traditional patriot to an everlasting dissident.

The 1790 Siege of Izmail is profiled as Tolstoy builds this experience into War &Peace characters who advanced to leadership roles, most notably General Kutuzov.The Siege was led by General Alexander Suvorov against an Ottoman stronghold near the mouth of the Danube and along the northwest coast of the Black Sea. The Russian and Ottoman empires spent centuries fighting for influence in this area.  The loss of Izmail was a factor in the Ottomans leaving the North Black Sea region.  While the Turks withdrew, the Muslim population who remained evidence their legacy. Kutuzov played a pivotal role in the Siege and was almost killed. He both trained and led a contingent of men across a formidable moat to approach the fortress.  Once the walls were actually reached, improvised ladders were utilized by Cossack reserves. Kutuzov himself fell back on multiple occasions and persevered as bodies fell around him. Notably, Kutuzov did not captain from the back -- but was in the thick-of-it as much as anybody. His generalship contributed to his rise in rank.  He proved he could lead men to victory, even when they faced the gravest of odds. Throughout the ordeal, the invaders took tremendous casualties from cannon fire. Once Izmael was breached, the Russians unleashed a savagery whose reputation has endured.The War of the Third Coalition (1805) was a monumental loss for Russian forces, while the Siege (1790) was moment of national triumph, which was immortalized in poetry and song, including “Let the Thunder of Victory Rumble.” Tolstoy notably describes the fictional Timokhin (who led a mad charge against Murat's attack at Shöngrabern) as a veteran of IzmailIt is the character of the men at Izmail (both brave and savage) that Tolstoy is trying to extoll, which would have been more apparent to late 19th century readers.

The infantry regiments caught unaware scattered in the woods amidst the French assault. Soldiers shouted, “Cut off!” - a most dangerous sentiment.  “Surrounded?! We're lost!” was the collective reply.The General realized something that he, an officer of 22 years, would be held responsible. He forgot his standoff with the cavalry colonel.   Tolstoy notes, “The moment of moral conviction, which decides the fate of battles had arrived.  Would his soldiers attend to the desperate voice of their commander or continue their flight?” Despite his shouts, the soldiers continued to run about in a panic.Nevertheless, there was a sea-change! The French disappeared as a special unit emerged from the woods -- Timokhin's company, filled with sharpshooters.Timokhin was previously singled out by Kutuzov for his participation in the Siege of Izmail in 1790.   He recalled Timokhin had a penchant for drinking but was a good man.  Tushin and Timokhin are fictional, but symbolic to how the Battle of Shöngrabern was a success.  Timokhin, brandishing a sword, rushed at the enemy with such a mad determination, it inspired the rest.  His behavior was reminiscent of the historic Siege, which has honorable and horrific aspects. The effort repelled the Ottomans from a critical position.  After taking heavy casualties, Russian forces rampaged the City. Many were raped and executed. The massacre troubled Kutuzov's soul. The story turns to Dólokhov, who also possessed the fighting spirt that repelled the French. Dólokhov, running beside Timokhin, killed a Frenchman and seized a surrendering officer – who he dragged to a superior. Dolokhov brazenly approached his commander. “The whole company can bear witness. I beg you will remember this!” Dólokhov then untied his handkerchief and exhibited his wound. The story moves to Tushin's battery. Critical support had been moved yet this battery continued firing. The French could not surmise anyone would fire from such an undefended position. The French eventually countered but Tushin was absorbed in the task before him and his artilleryman admired his resolve. In a childlike glee, the men only noticed when balls fell among them, tearing apart both men and horses. The horses were replaced and wounded carried off, as their four guns turned against ten. Tushin's companion officer had been killed and 17 of 40 from the battery were casualties.  Still they were merry. Tushin was in a feverish delirium.  It seemed so long ago since he fired the first shot. He regarded the corner of the field he stood as familiar. He gave his guns nicknames. “Matvévna, dear old lady, don't let me down!” He imagined himself as a god throwing cannon balls. Around him, his crew bustled; and they all looked at Tushin as a father.Suddenly a voice of a staff officer yelled out: “Captain Tushin! Are you mad? You have twice been ordered to retreat...”Tushin was taken out of the zone. A cannon ball caused the officer to duck. As he galloped off – he shouted “Retire! All to retire!” A moment later, Prince Andrei arrived. As one ball after another landed, he felt a shudder. He delivered the order and tried to have the guns taken.  Andrei and Tushin did not speak -- as both were busy securing the only two working cannons on a cart and moving them down a hill.Andrei then told Tushin. “Well, till we meet again...” holding out his hand. “Good-bye, my dear fellow,” replied Tushin. “Dear Soul! Good-bye, my dear fellow!” and tears suddenly filled Tushin's eyes. 

Tushin's battery managed to set fire to Schöngrabern, which delayed the advance of the French, who were occupied putting out fires.  The left flank —which consisted of the Azóv and Podólsk regiments as well as the Pávlograd hussars, tried to attack but were stymied by superior forces under Gen. Lannes. Bagration sent Zherkóv to the general commanding the left flank with orders to retreat.  Zherkóv, who Andrei once chastised for unprofessionalism, made the decision to deviate from duty but give himself the best chance to live.  He began to “look” for the general in places he would not be.   The commanders who should have received the message to retreat led the units that Nicholas Rostov (Hussars) and Dolokhov (Semënov) were a part of.  There was confusion and posturing between the leaders, a colonel and general. With lofty words, they were arguing that that the other should proceed. Neither was ready for action.  Their men had just been engaged in peaceful pursuits. Nonetheless, cannon and musketry thundered while Lannes' forces edged closer.The Colonel of the Hussars acknowledged he was outranked but voiced reluctance to sacrifice his Hussars. The two were not showing the initiative Tushin manifested.  They expanded their chests and rode slowly towards the front, where it became evident it was impossible for cavalry to act effectively. Additionally, the French continued to get closer. The two looked at one another like fighting cocks. Finally, the rattle of musketry diverted their attention.Nearby, the French attacked the men collecting wood. It was no longer even possible for the Hussars to advance as they were cut off from the line of retreat. It was now necessary to clear a way through.The rumor of a hasty movement spread. The Hussars and infantry instinctively knew their commanders did NOT know what to do.   Rostov would be thrown into the fray. There was nothing between the Hussars and the enemy but open space. Tolstoy refers to that terrible dividing line between “us” and “them.” It is a line between relative safety and the high possibility of death. All the soldiers where agitated by the question of whether and how they would cross that line.  Rostov knew his time had come to experience the joy of an attack.Out rang Captain Denisov's voice “Fo'ward, with God, lads!” - “At a twot fo'ward!” Rostov's horse, Rook, pulled at the reins and broke into a gallop. Rostov became elated and noticed a solitary tree ahead of him. He crossed the line and there was nothing so terrible.  The enemy grew closer and larger. “Oh, how I will slash at him!” and “Let anyone come my way now!”  thought Rostov. “Hur-a-a-a-ah!” came a roar of voices. The French were close enough to strike. As Rostov raised his saber, the world moved passed him. He didn't realize what had happened when his horse took a shot. Rostov felt as if in a dream – like he was carried forward with unnatural speed. In reality, he stayed on the same spot. From behind him, Bondarchúk, a hussar he knew, jolted past. “How is it I am not moving? I have fallen, I am killed!”  Rostov was absorbing nothing but the motionless earth. There was warm blood under his arm.   He then considered, “I am wounded and the horse is killed.” Rook tried, bleeding from the head, to rise on his forelegs but fell back.   After disentangling his leg, Rostov become some philosophical and Tolstoy brings you into the experience of the young officer facing battle.“Can something bad have happened to me?” At that moment he realized his wrist was hanging on his numb left arm.  People were running toward him  “They will help me!” However, these were French carrying a prisoner. “Can it be that they will take me too?  Just a moment before he had been ready to hack them to pieces but now their proximity was terrifying.  “Who are they? Can they be running at me? And why? To kill me? Me whom everyone is so fond of?” He remembered his mother's love as well as that of his family and his friends. Any intention to kill him seemed impossible.Rostov remain stationary. He could see the expression of the foremost Frenchman. That excited and alien face, holding a bayonet, frightened Rostov. Rostov seized his pistol but instead of firing it, flung it and ran with all his might toward the bushes.  He moved with the feeling of the hare fleeing from hounds. The fear for losing his young and happy life consumed him.Rostov put a good distance between himself and his pursuers.  He noticed his left arm felt heavy and he could run no more. A Frenchman stopped and took aim. Rostov closed his eyes and stooped down. Bullets whistled past him. He mustered his last remaining strength and reached the bushes.  Fortunate for him, some friendly sharpshooters gave him cover.

The Battle of Schöngrabern intensifies upon Murat's breaking of the truce and resultant barrage of cannon fire. General Bagratión and his contingent reached the highest point of the right flank then rode down to where musketry was heard. On account of smoke, they could barely see. They quickly encountered wounded. One man was dragged by two soldiers after a bullet pierced his throat. He was gurgling and spitting blood. Another walked aimlessly, groaning while swinging a limp arm. Blood streamed over his coat as if it poured from a bottle. His face showed fear rather than suffering.  Some soldiers were ascending the hill Bagration was descending. Despite the general's presence, most were too disorganized to be deferential.  Rows of friendly soldiers became visible through the smoke. One officer catching sight of Bagration shouted at a crowd of retreating soldiers to STOP retreating. Shots drowned out the sound of voices. The air reeked of smoke. Some men were using their ramrods while others fired. The atmosphere was filled with the whistling of bullets. The commander of one regiment, a thin, feeble elderly man with a pleasant smile and drooping eyelids, rode up to Bagration and welcomed him as a host does an honored guest. He reported that his regiment had been attacked by cavalry. He was unclear on whether the attack had been repulsed. He could not account for the troops entrusted to him and did know whether his regiment had merely broken up. This is insightful exposition of the Fog of War.  Prince Andrei was struck by the changed expression on Bagration's face. It expressed a concentrated and happy resolution. That dull, sleepy expression was gone. He now had the steady eyes of a hawk. Bagration turned to an adjunct and ordered the calling up of two battalions of Chasseurs for reinforcement.  Bagration was urged to fall back - as he was in an extraordinarily dangerous situation. He gave another order to cease firing and re-form. While he was speaking, the smoke began to move as if drawn by an invisible hand. It became clear that the French were advancing.  Right near Bagration marched a company commander, a round-faced man, with a silly and happy expression— who had previously rushed out of the shed with Tushin. This fella was thinking of how dashing he would appear as he passed the commander. He was strutting like a peacock, inattentive to the surrounding danger. A throng of soldiers with knapsacks and muskets marched in step. Each seemed to be repeating to himself, at each alternate step, “Left... left... left...” A cannon ball the flew over the heads of Bagration and his suite, falling into that very column, taking out a high number.Bagratión rode around the ranks and dismounted. He gave the reins to a Cossack, handed over his felt coat, stretched his legs and set his cap straight. “Well done, lads!” exhorted Bagratión. “Glad to do our best, your ex'len-lency!”. “Forward, with God!” continued Bagratión, in a resolute, sonorous voice. Andrei felt that an invisible power was leading them all forward.The head of the French column, with its officers at the vanguard, appeared from below the hill. The French were near. Andrei could distinguish their bandoliers, red epaulets and even their faces. Bagration gave no further orders and silently continued to walk in front of the ranks.One shot after another rang out. Several men caught bullets, among them the round-faced officer who had just marched so gaily. One moment he was full of life and pride, the next, like so many through the ages, he was laid to waste. Bagration looked round and shouted, “Hurrah!”“Hurrah!!!" came the response, which shouted from the ranks, with men passing Bagration and racing one another on their horses. They rushed in an irregular but joyous manner down the hill at their foe.

Andrei examined the position of the French, focusing on a puff of smoke from the cannon that fired. Two mounted Frenchmen galloped up the hill while a small column headed down to strengthen their front line. Another puff appeared and it was clear - the Battle of Schöngrabern had begun!A messenger just arrived with Bonaparte's stern letter and Murat, humiliated, moved his forces to attack the center and outflank both Russian wings, hoping for a quick victory before Napoleon's arrival. Andrei was reflecting on how his chance arrived to save the army! Tolstoy is asking us to consider if one man can accomplish this. Also worth considering: Was Napoleon more able to get men to this mindset? Or, are men led to victory by a more passive leader, like Kutuzov's depiction? Tolstoy argues victors will also need Providence or chance. Who prevails is often impossible to know -- yet how we search for causes! Not long before, the men had been enjoying a welcome respite - eating porridge and drinking vodka. Now, impending death was heralded by the movement of soldiers forming ranks. On their faces, Andrei recognized the eagerness that filled his own heart. It was “dreadful but enjoyable!” He demonstrated both confidence and ambition in thinking, “where and how will my Toulon present itself?” Andrei noticed Bagration riding toward him wearing a Cossack cloak. Bagration recognized Andrei, who conveyed what he thought would be the proper strategy. Bagration remained stoic. Andrei wondered, “Is there anything at all behind that impassive face?” Bagration's posture implied that everything that took place was exactly in accord with what he had foreseen. Andrei noticed Bagration's saber, which was a gift from Gen. Alexander Suvorov. This detail is meant to show the historical connection between the generals as Bagration, during campaigns in Italy, was a trusted protégé of Suvorov.Bagration headed toward Túshin's battery. Andrei followed, along with Zherkov and other officers. Riding with them was a civilian with connections —an accountant. He was a stout, full-faced man with a naïve smile. He looked unusual among the hussars, Cossacks and adjutants. “He wants to see a battle,” said Zherkóv “but feels a pain in the pit of his stomach.” Enemy fire soon struck ground near them and a Cossack crashed to earth with his horse.Cossacks, many from territories in Ukraine, suffered in high casualties. They expected to be rewarded for their service, with increased rights. Instead they found their rights diminished and felt marginalized. Many developed quite the national identity.Prince Bagration did not demonstrate concern over the causality. He turned as if to say: “Is it worth-while noticing trifles?” He reached the battery and observed gunners working their cannons. Bagration called to Tushin, who replied with an awkward salute - looking like a priest giving a benediction. Though the original plan was for Túshin's guns to strike the valley, he was firing at the village of Schöngrabern, in front of which masses of French were advancing.It is profound that Tushin, a fictional character, is attributed making this critical decision. Tushin decided, “Lets hit 'em in the most sensible part!”  “Very good!” noted Bagration in reply to learning what was happening. As Bagration examined the battlefield, he noticed French coming around the flank to the right and ordered two battalions to reinforce the vulnerable area.Adjutants rode up with a messages on where the French were attacking and being contained. There was back-and-forth with these types of updates. Andrei was able to hear Bagratión's colloquies and, to his surprise, noticed no orders were really given. This was not necessary historically accurate, but Tolstoy depicts it this way to show a “greater truth.”Bagration made it appear that everything was done by necessity, or by the will of subordinate commanders AND if not by his direct command, at least in accord with his intentions.Andrei realized that ALL of consequence that happened was due to chance and independent of the commander's will. Nevertheless, owing to the tact Bagration showed, his presence was valuable. Officers who approached him with disturbed countenances became calm. Soldiers greeted him gaily and grew more cheerful in his presence and were anxious to display their courage.

This episode initially exams the lead-up to the Battle of Schöngraben.  Murat and Lannes had led the capture of Vienna. However, Vienna was a symbolic prize as it was taken at the cost of pursuing Kutuzov and crushing his army.  Murat moved on towards the Austrian town of Hollabrunn to cut the Russian line of retreat and prevent them from reaching Znaim (Znojmo - a Czech city). Kutuzov was ultimately headed toward Olmutz (Olomouc – another Czech city). If Kutuzov could remain on the front-foot, he would link up with his Austrian allies. Upon leaving Krems, Napoleon and Kutuzov were fighting with their “feet.”Kutuzov assigned Gen. Bagration to lead a rear guard of about 5-7K, meant to hold off the French. Murat (with about 10K) initiated a second gambit. He proposed a short truce as he was not sure of the size of Bagration's forces and if it was combined with Kutuzov's. Murat sought reinforcements of his own. His strategy was to hold all soldiers in place under the notion peace negotiations might head-off the impending battle. A separate Austrian contingent, under General Nostitz, accepted a similar offer and withdrew from Hollabrunn itself. Historically, Murat's terms were presented to Bagration as “Capitulation Offered by Russian Army.” It involved Russian forces leaving the field with their arms and heading home.  Napoleon realized only the Czar could sign off on the entire army leaving. This was conveyed to Murat, who was compelled to attack. To Kutuzov, the delay was a godsend. His main force could get further ahead of the French but he would likely have to sacrifice his rear-guard. This chapter places us within the truce. Andrei had just toured the camp at Schöngrabern, during which he encountered the fictional artillery commander, Captain Tushin. Scholars attribute intelligent decisions to Bagration in positioning his troops and using the terrain. However, Tushin will emerge as the hero. Tolstoy captured the nobility of the unknown soldier. Tushin is, in essence, the forgotten man that gives his all to a cause. Tolstoy also uses Tushin to present the role of the unknown, or chance, in war. Tolstoy posits: How much can we know about a cause we try to attribute reason to?Andrei made his way up to a battery from which the field could be seen. He could see how Bagration positioned his forces. On the opposite hill, was the village of Schöngraben, where French troops were amid smoke from their campfires. Andrei developed the skill of being able follow military movements and picture forthcoming events – and summarize them for a commander. Here, he noticed: his right flank was posted on a steep incline -- which dominated the French position. Infantry were stationed there as well as dragoons. The French line appeared wider and he recognized Bagration could be outflanked on both sides.  Behind many of the Russian forces was a steep dip, making it difficult for artillery and cavalry to retire. Andrei thought it would be best to concentrate all artillery in the center and withdraw cavalry to a better spot.   Andrei then noticed a friendly conversation coming from a newly constructed shed. He was struck by the sincerity of the voice who turned out to be Tushin. “No, friend - what I say is that if it were possible to know what is beyond death, none of us would be afraid of it." Another, a younger voice, interrupted - “Afraid or not, you can't escape it.” “All the same, one is afraid!,” interjected a third. Discussing of the nature of death before impending battle is quite poignant. These men are taking life as it comes, with grace.They continue such banter by incorporating an artillery soldiers penchant for liquor and snacks. Just as Andrei realizes, with pleasure, “that's the captain who stood up in the sutler's hut without his boots,” there was a whistle of a cannon and the ball thudded into the ground near the shed with super human force. The ground seemed to groan at the impact.  Immediately Tushin, with his short pipe in the corner of his mouth, rushed out of the shed to face the danger.

This episode is final installment with Prof. Mikaberidze. He discusses the nature of the Holy Roman Empire (HRE) and how the Napoleonic Wars, at least politically, marked Medieval Times giving way to Modern Age in Central Europe.  Before 1805, was no Germany but the HRE, a commonwealth of over 300 subdivisions of mostly German-speaking states. This included kingdoms, free states, duchies, and bishoprics.  The Emperor was elected by nine rulers of the more influential states. From the 16th Century onward, each Emperor came from the Habsburg family, which resulted in Habsburgs running Austria and overseeing the Empire.  Austria, Bavaria, Saxony, Baden, Württemberg and Hanover where among the more influential states.    The relationships of the panoply of states was impacted by competition and alliances in accord with tastes of the times.  Each state was generally self-sufficient. If the Emperor requested, troops could be sent for a common cause for a delineated term.  Importantly, there was not a Germanic army loyal to the Emperor. This was their “separation of powers." Other large powers exploited this -- as French Kings did during the 30 Years War and Napoleon did as well.The HRE existed for about 1000 years, if you measure it from Pope Leo crowning Charlemagne in 800 A.D.,  or 850 years from Pope John XII crowning Otto in 962.  In any event, it all ends in1805, in the wake of the Battle of Austerlitz. Through victory, Napoleon restructures the old institution into something new, namely the Confederation of the Rhine, which had 39 states.We also discuss the “Glorious Retreat,” a term the professor uses in an ironic sense. This phrase was born in 19th century Russia and heavily promoted in Soviet times, where Kutuzov was extolled as a genius.  Granted, what is depicted in Part II of Book I was a wise retreat where Kutuzov never allowed his forces to get out-worked and surrounded like General Mack at Ulm. However, the events of 1805 were a significant loss for the Russian Empire with minimal “glory” A re-characterization was the method to find a silver lining. The Russians promoted their continued escape and placed the blame on “treacherous” Austrians.  They cherry-picked certain efforts, like in Krems, and celebrated Bagration.  The Professor also touches on how formal military rules were flouted, and officers, at times, would travel with their wives, and come up with creative excuses for the breach.  Prof. Mikaberidze later gives an overview of some of the various Cossacks to populate the Russian Empire in the early 19th Century.  He also references whether Napoleon missed an opportunity of allying with the population of territories taken by Russia during the partitions of Poland (the final one formalized in 1797), which was within memory of much of the population Napoleon encountered when he march East. For example, when reached Vilnius in 1812, he was met with widespread acclaim.   He also marched through (what is today) Belarus and northern Ukraine. As some of these areas were acquired forcefully 20 years before, Napoleon may have been able to recruit more of the local population with skillful outreach.  It is also an interesting question as to whether masses of Ukrainian and Lithuanian peasantry would have assisted him.We close by discussing the transcendent nature of War & Peace.

Kutuzov is presented with a choice while the French advance toward Krems: (1) abandon the main road or (2) continue toward Ölmutz. Each is fraught with peril and he chooses the latter. It was in this direction he had sent Gen. Bagration, who Andrei (off-book) convinced Kutuzov to allow to join. In the previous chapter, Kutuzov steadfastly refused the request, under the belief Bagration would be decimated.  The idea was to march rapidly and fortify a position, engage the French, once again allowing the main force to retreat.   This involved a 30 mile march where Kutuzov willed his men to reach the town of Hollabrünn before the French. The maneuver also allowed supply lines to be secured. One may ask: What is the purpose in depicting what seems like military minutia? While War & Peace is known for it's victorious ending, showcasing the War of 1812, much of the body of the work, explores the ideals the French introduced through the Napoleonic Wars, which led to changes in Russian Society during Tolstoy's life. This includes ideas brought forth during the failed Decembrist revolt of 1825. Tolstoy was writing from the perspective of having served in the Crimean War (1853-56), where Russia was humiliated and forced to reform. Tolstoy was able to witness the emancipation of the serfs who were conscripted in the battles (both minor and great) that War & Peace depicts.Gen. Joachim Murat, fresh from taking Vienna, reached Bagration's forces and proposed a 3-day truce. Murat was thought to be hesitating while waiting for reinforcements. In hindsight, Murat is viewed as having been in an advantageous position. Murat may also have been thinking that peace negotiations were under way and that risking men in a fierce battle was unnecessary. Bagration communicated the offer to Kutuzov, with both understanding the advantage. Foremost, it allowed for necessary rest. When word reached Napoleon, who was relatively close at Shönbrunn Palace, he sent a messenger to chastise Murat. He ordered the truce be rescinded and set out to the front. Chapter 15 takes us into Bagration's division, where we find Andrei. Bagration gave Andrei the choice the be upfront with him or in the rear guard.  Andrei was permitted to explore the camp by escort, as he desired to place himself where he would be of most use. At first, Andrei found a disorganized mess. He ran into Artillery Captain Tushin, who was in his tent with his boots off, which was against protocol. Tushin had a noble spirit about him. He was salt-of-the-earth and did his best to defuse the uncomfortable situation.During the truce, Andrei observed soldiers in various states, including digging trenches in minimal clothing. Andrei reached a hill from where he could observe his adversary. The closer he got to the front, he noticed an equanimity to the men. This depiction likely stems from Tolstoy's experience in the bastions of Crimea. Tolstoy is pointing out the paradox of good men who will soon be sent to kill those who profess the same religion. He captures a decency of those put up front. There was a pride and sense of togetherness. Many were dragging logs and constructing huts. Laughing and chatter could be heard. Some sat around fire, eating, drying clothes, or attending to leg bands. They behaved with a dignity and as if they were at home.Tolstoy also captures the brutality of army life. Andrei soon observes a soldier being brutally disciplined. He is naked and held down by two men, while two others beat him with switches.  He had been caught stealing and a Major was commanding the beating to continue. This highlights the Prussian discipline many Russian commanders adopted.Andrei moves on and reaches the center of the front line, where the truce envoys met. He could see the faces of the adversary. Contingents on both sides jest and taunt one another. Dolokhov is in the middle of it.  The soldiers are filled with misinformation and the taunts center around Napoleon. The banter gets so heated that musket balls are propelled into the air. Eventually, the soldiers retire -- leaving each other's artillery to ominously face one another.

For those picking up War & Peace, deciphering the context of this era is a challenge. This episode is a great resource regarding the initial stages of the War of the Third Coalition in 1805.  France prevailed over the 1st Coalition in 1797 and 2nd Coalition in 1801. Afterward, France controlled much of Western Europe, including (from today's perspective): Belgium, much of Southern Germany, Switzerland, and various parts of Italy. Spain was also a junior partner of France. Napoleon was having success pushing for a reorganization of the German states, which included the Imperial Recess of 1803. This movement threatened the centuries-old interests of Austria, Prussia, and Russia.  The War of the Third Coalition began in the Summer of 1805. The Coalition had manpower of over a half a million, but they were spread out and not organized. For example, the Coalition had a presence in the Netherlands, Hanover (Northern Germany), Southern Italy, and Prussia. The Coalition was eager to invade Bavaria, a French ally. The Austrians wanted to pressure (through force) the Bavarians to align with them. The feeling was: what Bavaria does, so will most of the German states.Gen. Kutuzov led the largest contingent of the Czar's forces and was given the task of uniting with Austrians as they pushed into Bavaria. Kutuzov initially had to cover about 900 miles to link up. He started out with around 50,000, but by the time he arrived, only half his troops remained. In September, Austrian forces made the move into Bavaria. Kutuzov's forces were expected in early October, but were late. The march was slower than expected, leaving a wide gap between Austrians and Russian forces.  When Kutuzov arrived, his men were exhausted and ill-equipped. Nevertheless, the Austrians wanted to get their allies right into the fight, especially at Ulm. Kutuzov recognized this would be fruitless and held back.Napoleon grasped the situation and attacked relatively isolated Austrians, demolishing them at Ulm. He then turned his attention to chasing Kutuzov before reinforcements could arrive. Kutuzov recognizes retreat is the best option -- to thin out Napoleon's forces. Kutuzov engages the French with his rear guard, often led by Gen. Peter Bagration.   By November, Napoleon is weaker, but still threatening.  Kutuzov was waiting for Winter and for Coalition forces to be reinforced. Prof. Mikaberidze contends that if Kutuzov's advice was followed, Napoleon likely would have lost the war in the first half of 1806.We then move onto a discussion of the daily experience of officers and soldiers, based on correspondence the Professor reviewed.  From the French perspective, there is a realization Napoleon is winning through speed. The French are stressed but were moved by a sense of elation. They feel part of something monumental. Russian officers communicated a life of drudgery. Many were sick or lagging behind and walked with boots that were in tatters. There was an utter lack of food and supplies. This was a responsibility the Austrians were not living up to.   Nevertheless, there was a sense of pride and group cohesion on both sides. Overall, Kutuzov held a reputation for treating his men decently. He made a point to visit soldiers during common gatherings such as around camp fires. He asked about their experience. He would occasionally sit down with rank-and-file soldiers over a bowl of porridge. The Professor also discusses hierarchical nature of Russian society and the Table of Ranks (there were 14 total) imposed by Peter the Great. It was adopted from European systems and held up until 1917.   One would start at bottom, and ideally (though not in practice) advance through merit and perseverance.

This episode is part I of III of my interview with LSU History Professor Alexander Mikaberidze, an expert on the Napoleonic Wars. I'm breaking our interview up into roughly 20 minute segments.We focus on General Mikhail Kutuzov, who is introduced, in-depth, to War & Peace readers in Book 1 Part 2. Chapter 13 has Prince Andrei taking in the scars Kutuzov suffered from being shot by musket balls in Crimea.Professor Mikaberidze notes Kutuzov, as a young man, was serving in the Danubian principalities, primarily Romania, and merited the reputation of a brave and capable officer who often led "from the front."Kutuzov was also known (as a young soldier) to be an unending source of jokes and parodies – the type of person helpful to making military life tolerable. However, during a night of drinking he made fun of a Commander in Chief who did not see any fun in Kutuzov's jest. The incident got Kutuzov transferred from the First Army in Romania to the Second Army in the Crimean peninsula, which was something of a demotion.In Crimea, in 1774, there was a conflict with the Turks. Part of Kutuzov's unit was ordered to attack an Ottoman fortification. Kutuzov was leading soldiers and wound up on a rock waving his men forward. At this point, he was shot in the head and miraculously avoided death. He was carried off the field and recovered. His convalescence was aided (financially) by Empress Katarina. Kutuzov was able to travel about Europe and received the best medical care in Prussia, Austria and the Dutch Republic. During this time, he met the most influential members of society, including Frederik the Great and various influential Austrians.Kutuzov escaped death again in the summer of 1788, when we he was shot, once again by Ottomans in Crimea. The projectile went through his left check and came out the right side of his neck. Part of his jaw was shattered.Prof. Mikaberidze discusses how these incidents may have affected him and Kutuzov's genuine care for those under his command. The Professor touches on Kutuzov's writings and that to Kutuzov -- being a soldier meant great sacrifice. Given the nature of Kutuzov's recovery, the famous French doctor who treated him, as well as Kutuzov himself, believed there was a sense of Providence that saved Kutuzov. This view holds Kutuzov was touched by the Almighty and was being prepared for something monumental.

Andrei embarks on his mission to “save the army,” by getting back to Kutuzov. He secures a Cossack horse and attendant and travels from Brünn to Krems. He finds himself among thousands of soldiers, who are weary. The roads were jammed with carts, horses and carriages. Soldiers found themselves deprived of food, supplies and weapons promised by the Austrians. This led to a situation where soldiers would ravage the countryside and return from local villages with plunder.The road remained a mess much of the way, with commanders yelling, whips cracking and soldiers in poor spirits. The side of the road was littered with dead horses, broken wagons and the sick or injured. Andrei had occasion to reflect on Napoleon's words: “That Russian army which English gold has brought from the ends of the Universe; we shall cause it to share the same fate as the army at Ulm.” However, Andrei senses the next battle could be his Siege of Toulan, the conflict (1793) where Napoleon made a name for himself.  Amidst the chaos, Andrei comes across an unusual scene - a drunk officer driving a carriage and whipping the driver of another who apparently “cut the line.” The drunkard yells, “Turn back with your slut.” He is referring to the woman pleading for help while her husband (a physician) is being assaulted.  The Russian Army had a reputation of allowing wives travel with some officers – though it was technically against the rules. The woman appeals for someone in authority and spots Andrei.  He bears a few insults but uses tact and his position to diffuse the situation. He soon reaches the village where Kutuzov is located.As Andrei walks around - Nesvitsky spots him, and his expression revealed the army's dreadful position.  As he escorted Andrei to Kutuzov, he inquires what Andrei knows about any truce, hoping for same. Nesvitsky reflects on how immature he was to laugh at Mack's situation. Nesvitsky also noticed Andrei was suffering from the elements -- wincing and wheezing.As Andrei nears Kutuzov's quarters, Kozlovsky (another close aide), was dictating orders that there will be battle, not capitulation. Kutuzov was in the process sending Prince Pytor Bagration to fight in the next battle. Kutuzov said, amidst tears, “Well, good-bye Prince, Christ be with you, Many blessings on Your great endeavor.”  He drew Bagration close with his left hand and with his right, crossed himself. In return, Bagration kissed Kutuzov on the neck.  Kutuzov noticed Andrei and asked him to enter his carriage. Andrei initially begged to fight with Bagration. Kutuzov diplomatically refused, knowing it was pointless. He told Andrei, “I have need of good officers with me” and that “there is still much before us.” Kutuzov poignantly relayed, “if one in ten of that division returns, I shall be thankful to God.” During the ride, the two were quite close, giving Andrei a chance to examine the deep scar on Kutuzov's temple where a bullet pierced his skull. Andrei realizes Kutuzov earned the right to speak about all facets of war, even sending men to their deaths, recognizing this as a necessary aspect of leadership.The nature of Kutuzov's infamous wound is discussed. Though not referenced in much detail, Kutuzov was shot in 1774 -- in Alushta, Crimea -- while leading grenadiers in a siege against fortified positions of the Ottomans. He was standing on a large rock waving on his men and took a musket ball to the head. He was hit between left eye and temple and the projective went thru his skull, not hitting the brain. He wound up on a pile of the fallen. His was carried off and miraculously survived. His recovery took about year and a half. He suffered another bullet to the head in 1788 at Ochakiv when Kutuzov was scouting positions, ironically with Austrians. His jaw was fractured. The ball went in around the left cheek. It only took six months before he returned to active duty.

Les Nôtres (Bilibin's clique of diplomats) were happy to open their group to Andrei and they all chatted in Bilibin's study. However, Andrei quickly took his leave for the royal reception. Emperor Francis met various officials en masse but later Andrei received a more private audience. Francis asked Andrei banal questions such as: How long was it since Andrei left the field? How was Kutuzov? and..At what time was General Schmiddt killed? Francis spoke as if it was his aim to ask questions...with the answers meaning very little.Francis II presented Andrei with an award – Admission to the Maria Theresa Order of the 3rd Class.  Andrei was soon surrounded by elites and received the attention he previously yearned for. He was now conflicted, coming to resent the splendor while men like Napoleon and Murat were in the field making a difference. As Andrei walked back to Bilibin's quarters after the ceremony, the dynamic changed when he observed his friend's coachman furiously packing.  Bilibin relayed that Napoleon's forces were marching toward Brünn. Bilibin, in his typical flair, references the historic affair at the Tabor Bridge, where French generals -- Joachim Murat and Jean Lannes -- conned their way across, along with a contingent of French forces.   Those defending the crossing, most notably Fürst Karl Joseph Franz von Auersperg, failed in their duty.   This allowed the French to take the entire capital of Vienna without a shot fired and place their army on same the side of the Danube as the retreating Austrians and Russians. In less than a month – the French would be encountered at Austerlitz.Andrei envision what he must do - namely return to General Kutuzov to "save the army!" Bilibin implores Andrei to retreat to Olmütz, where the Austrian Court is headed, as there is no mandate for Andrei to immediately return to the front. Bilibin senses Kutuzov is facing decimation. Bilibin calls Andrei "un philosophe"  a title for the kind of philosopher (usually French) ushering in a new age in the mold of Voltaire, Rousseau and Diderot. Such persons have an obligation to protect themselves for the advancement of society. However, out of a sense of patriotism, bravado as well as the pull to live up the ideals his father instilled, Andrei sets out to return to his unit.

Prince Andrei wakes up for a big day – for he has an invitation to a royal reception before Francis II, the Holy Roman Emperor. Francis will be the final person holding this title, after a near-1000 year run governing Central Europe. Vienna was often the seat of government but so were areas in the modern-day Check Republic, such as Brünn. German was the common tongue and the center of power was basically wherever the Emperor decided to be.Andrei is dressed in ceremonial uniform and enters Bilibin's study, where Bilibin is holding court with fellow Russian diplomats, including Hippolyte Kuragin. This clique calls themselves Les Nôtres (“Our People”) and are more interested in vain pursuits than public service. This is Tolstoy's subtle comment on the merits of said profession. Tolstoy had notable diplomats as well as military figures in his aristocratic family.Hippolyte quickly became the object of ridicule for his inability to convey a competent thought as well as his lack of acumen with women. It is clear he obtained his station from family connections rather than merit. Bilibin sarcastically labels Hippolyte "Demosthenes," one of the great Athenian orators. Hippolyte laughs it off but knows enough to become distressed.Les Nôtres were happy to open their group to Andrei, who chatted for a spell, but quickly left for the reception. Bilibin wished to entertain Andrei in Brünn but sees the Prince is about his business. With regard to Andrei's upcoming meeting with Francis, Bilibin advices: "Audiences are his passion but he doesn't like talking himself and never has a word to say, as you will find out."

The focus shifts to Prince Andrei. He was said to be serving with the late Gen. Schmidtt, who was killed at Dürenstein. Andrei is sent to convey a battlefield report to the Austrian court, which has moved from Vienna to Brünn (now in the Czech Republic – ‘Brno'). Traveling by carriage, Andrei is stirred with the exhilaration that comes from facing fire. In the fray, Andrei's hand was grazed by a bullet and his horse was shot.  He replayed the details of the battle and reflected on his own courage. When asleep, he dreamed of being killed and Russia defeated. When Andrei encountered a convoy of wounded comrades, he eagerly asked for updated information and distributed gold pieces. He reached Brünn at night, taking in the aesthetics of ancient city. The lofty buildings and quant shops were far from the realities of military camp life. He envisioned being graciously welcomed by the Austrian court but the reality was that he was made to wait by a stream of bureaucrats and finally got an audience with the Minister of War, a bookish old man who barely acknowledged him. Tolstoy is making the point that those who condemn countless souls to death avoid having to embrace the realities of war. The Minister already knows much of what Andrei was there to convey, laments the death of Schmidtt, and informs Andrei the Emperor will see him the following day.Andrei retires to the quarters of Bilibin, a Russian diplomat who Andrei was familiar with. Both aristocrats have high prospects because of their lineage. Bilibin is 35 and unmarried. He has a thin and worn face. He is an expert at turning out reports and memos. He is both a wit and wordsmith, with a ready remark for all occasions. While sitting beside a fire and conversing in French, Bilibin quickly informs Andrei, “with all proper respect for the Russian Orthodox Army, your victory, was not particularly victorious.” He reveals the poor position the allies are in and that Vienna has been taken. The capital was abandoned and Napolean feasts at the Baroque palace, Schonbrunn. There have been reports a key series of bridges on the Danube (the Tabor) not being properly defended and Marshals Murat and Lannes taking advantage.  Andrei's mind is blown. He wonders how this had happened, and if this means the campaign is over. Bilibin believes it is – expect for the question of whether the King of Prussia, Frederik Wilhem III, will join the Czar. With such an alliance, the fight may go on. If not, capitulation and treaties await. Austria would sue for peace at terms detrimental to the Czar. Bilibin notes Austria has been rendered a fool and will wish to preserve her honor. It hits Andrei that nobody will care much for what he has come to report.  Andrei is enamored with Napolean. He contemplates the luck the man has. It also dawns on him how Austrian will quickly dismiss Russia as an ally. He then retires, where his thoughts were occupied with the potential of the moment -- possible alliances, Austria's likely treachery, Bonaparte's triumphs, his upcoming meeting with King Francis.  Once asleep, his dreams thrust him back into the battle, where bullets whipped by him and the recently deceased Gen Schmidtt. It gave him the most extreme appreciation and joy of living!

This episode elaborates on Tolstoy's depiction of the historic retreat of Kutuzov eastward (following the Danube) towards Vienna. Kutuzov's army amounted to 35K and were often buttressed by similarly retreating Austrian allies. The first part of Ch. 9 references this march along with three battles where the French vanguard caught up with Kutuzov's rear-guard.The previous chapters mention Napoleon's mastery at Ulm, where around 25K Austrians surrendered after a brilliant encircling maneuver.   Austrians who escaped were also retreating toward Vienna. There was a notion manpower should concentrate on defending the Capital.Kutuzov's army was pursued by a significant detachment of the Grand Armée as Napoleon wished to pin them down -- allowing Napoleon to concentrate additional forces on taking Vienna.Kutuzov finds himself among an increasingly hostile civilian population. Many were prone to welcome the French rather than encounter Russians, whose necessity to live off the land wore out any welcome. On Oct. 28, 1805, Kutuzov had his army cross the Danube. This allowed him to postpone any conflicts until the Battle of Lamach on 10/31. It involved about 3,700 allies and similar amount of French. The French were led by Marshall Louis-Nicolas Davout (The Iron Marshall).  Kutuzov delegated the defense to General Pyotr Bagration. The engagement took place in a small village and involved calvary, hussars and artillery. The French won the field but Bagration held off Davout long enough to allow Kutuzov an effective retreat. The French only suffered about 50 casualties (killed or wounded) while the Russians likely experienced 150 and Austrians 400.Soon after, on 11/5 was the Battle of Amstetten. It was the first time during the War of the Third Coalition that Kutuzov's forces were involved such a sizable conflict. There were around 7K allies and 10K French. Traditional techniques were used, including using the terrain to an advantage, as well as retreats and counterattacks with reinforcements. The was a mad calvary charge led by Marshall Joachim Murat. For Murat, known for bravery and rashness -- this was not a shining moment. Estimates indicate 300 casualties for Bagration's forces and 1,000 each for Austrians and French.  Once again, Bagration gave Kutuzov's main force sufficient distance from the French. On the field, there was no clear winner.The Battle of Dürenstein then took place on 11/11. Here, Kutuzov's army achieved its greatest success to date, which provided quite the (temporary) morale boost. The allies drove off the French, who were under Marshal Edouard Mortier. Around 24K allies faced 14K French and Kutuzov's men captured some artillery, battle standards and prisoners. Each side took around 5K casualties.   It appears Mortier overextended his vanguard and paid the price, getting his men caught in a valley between two opposing columns. Overall, the Austrians took the worst of the affair as General Johann Henrich Von Schmitt was killed. Schmitt was a respected strategist, surveyor and map maker. He was likely accidentally shot by a Russian soldier, which was greatly resented.Tolstoy describes the increase of casualties. Kutuzov is compelled to leave throngs of his wounded behind, with a cordial note – commending them to the humanity of the French. The expectation was that the prisoners would be treated and exchanged. However, the countryside was overwhelmed and proper treatment was an impossibility.

Only Denisov's squadron of Hussars and some Cossacks were on the side of the crossing facing the enemy. The French became visible when they emerged from a tree line on the heights, putting their artillery into position. The Hussars remained poised amidst French bugle calls. Between Denisov's men and the enemy was about 700 yards of vacant space. It was a no-man's land Tolstoy gave transcendent significance. He wrote:“One step beyond that line, which is like the bourne dividing the living from the dead… [W]hat is there?, who is there?, there beyond that field, beyond that tree…. No one knows, but who does not long to know? You fear to cross that line, yet you long to cross it; and you know that sooner or later it will have to be crossed….”Soon, the French fired cannons overshooting the Hussars. The faces of the Hussars showed “conflict, excitement and agitation.” Rostov sat on his horse, confident and ready to showcase his bravery. He glanced around with a serene and radiant expression.  Denisov appeared redder in the face than usual -- perhaps from liquid courage – and led his men across to safety. He met up with Col. Karl Bogdanich Schubert. Young Rostov believed Col. Schubert (who recently dressed him down as a “liar”) noticed him.Zherkov, who had been demoted to field duties, found Schubert and delivered an order to “fire the bridge.” This involved sending a small group into the line-of-fire. There was confused discussion among the officers on what should be done. It would have been better to have set fire to the structure on the way over rather than to send men back. Minutes were now a matter of life and death. Schubert ordered that Denisov's squadron perform the task. This confirmed Rostov's (incorrect & lofty) suspicion that he was being focused on. In reality, he was hardly noticed. Some of the Hussars made for the bridge on horse and others, including Rostov, on foot. Rostov ignominiously fell in the mud. The French then sent soldiers running towards the bridge.  It was a race to see if the Hussars could blow the bridge before taking excessive fire. The officers wondered: Who would get there first? Would the French artillery rip the Hussars to pieces? Zherkov, true to his base character, contemplated the awards that await if the task was pulled off. When further cannon shots rang out, Nesvitsky noticed that a Hussar was cut down. He was shocked by the brutality and imagined -- “If I were Czar I would never make war.” Grapeshot rained down on the bridge.  One blast fell in the midst of a group, hitting three men. Soon smoke from the bridge obscured it.Rostov found himself in the middle of the crossing, unable to help the situation. He didn't even have any burning straw. He was useless and in fear. He could hear the grapeshot spreading around, which resembled someone scattering nuts. The Hussar nearest him was hit and there was a call for “stretchers!” Rostov could only stare into the distance, having an epiphany as he took in the Danube, sky, and sun. The water so blue and calm. Nature was filled with peace and happiness but all around him -- man-made mayhem. He became conscious of his mortality and realized he may never see the sun again. The yearn to fight was purged. His fear of death and love of life merged into a sickening agitation. Rostov prayed aloud to the Lord for forgiveness and protection. He then ran back following Hussars who successfully set the bridge ablaze.When safe, Rostov thought himself a coward. However, that was not the way others viewed him, for his elders understood what the young man had just experienced. Overall, the mission a success and the Hussars took just a handful of casualties. It appeared one was killed on the spot and one or two died later.  Only a few more were wounded, which to the Colonel's view, was “not worth mentioning” in official reports.

Chapter 6: General Kutuzov is obligated to have his forces fall back towards Vienna and destroy bridges that cross the River Enn, particularly at Braunnau and Traun (near Linz). On a warm but showery Autumn Day -- October 23, 1805 -- the bridge in Braunnau is focused on. Here, the Russian command is located on heights that provide a splendid view of the countryside surrounding Braunnau. This was not far from where the Enn flows into the Danube.Among the artillery guns was Prince Nesvitsky, who was treating fellow soldiers to a local delicacy (small pies) as well as some rum punch (doppel-kümmel). The men chat about what they could view, including: the throng retreating towards them on the bridge, the movement of weaponry, as well as a local castle that would be ransacked for supplies. Their attention soon focuses on a local convent believed to be filled with young Italian nuns. Nesvitsky voices how he would love to "slip in" while another contends the nuns must be equally bored to death.Kutuzov recognizes the retreat is moving at a snail's pace and that the men are in danger of being fired upon -- as the enemy could now be seen with the naked eye. Soon thereafter, Nesvitsky received orders to cross the bridge and tell a Colonel to have the Hussars cross last and destroy the bridge. Nesvitsky (along with a Cossack) left for this mission – telling his friends that he is going to “pay a visit to those little nuns.”A General soon orders a cannon fired to test the range, which he finds will also be “a little fun to relieve the monotony.” A roar emanated and the shell went overhead, but fell well-short of the enemy.  While some faces lit up at the sound, a light-hearted gaiety prevailed.Chapter 7: The French were motivated to fire back. By this point, Nesvitsky was halfway across the bridge but stuck among the crush of men traveling the opposite way.  He had been forced to dismount from his horse and was jammed against the parapet (barrier/wall). He could barely move among: men shoulder-to-shoulder with bayonets, baggage wagons, and cannons. Nesvitsky looked down and absorbed the unencumbered flow of the river, such a contrast to the chaos above.  He noticed the conversations around him. One man spoke about a fellow solider being hit with a butt of a gun in the teeth. Another referenced the need for supplies (leg-bands). Yet another mentioned facing fire for the first time. Nesvitsky then passed a German family who had a special permit to evacuate. The father was quite nervous as he had with him two beautiful daughters. The soldiers were captivated by the young Germans, with every face wearing a smile “born of unseemly thoughts.” This movement of a family fleeing with all their possessions was foreboding. Prince Nesvitsky then noticed fire from the French splash into the water. This caused the cluster to move faster. Nesvitsky was getting nowhere until he was spotted by Captain Denisov, who was told of the Prince's assignment. Denisov cleared a path with his sword and bravado ("Tell these devils, these demons, to give us woom!...Out of the way! Make woom! I will cut to pieces!...”). Denisov was absorbed in the moment, long having been ready for action.Once the message was delivered to the Colonel, it was time to cross back and get out of cannon range. Here, Denisov reconnected with some of his Hussars and the rivalry between the infantry and Hussars became apparent. Some Hussars, with their fancy uniforms and horses, essentially cut the line, and paraded -- four horses abreast -- back across the bridge. This led to insults being shouted from infantry and a Hussar splashing a soldier with mud. When an infantryman yelled, “What's the use of them? They're just for show. Only fit for a circus!,” a hussar eventually responded, “put a broomstick beneath your legs and ride-a-cock horse!”

Word of Nikolai tracking down Lt. Telyanin and accusing him of stealing Denisov's money spread through the army, reaching the Hussar Regimental Commander, Colonel Karl Bogdanych Schubert (a name evidencing German ancestry).Bogdanych, a fictional leader who was well-respected, confronted Rostov and called the young ensign a liar. He did this not out of any affinity for Telyanin, but to protect the integrity of his Hussars. The Colonel desires to avoid a green officer like Rostov publicly accusing a superior, as the mere allegation of thievery reflects poorly on the unit. In Denisov's quarters, Rostov receives a lecture from his fellow officers on the reality of the situation. Leading this colloquy is Kirsten, a staff sergeant, who details the obligation to apologize. Kirsten points out how Rostov is new to the regiment in contrast to a great number of the Hussars have known each other for years and expect to die in the unit. In contrast, with his aristocratic background, Rostov is likely to be called away to a more glamorous role his peers will never have the opportunity to pursue. He is expected to be “here today, gone tomorrow.”  The officers convey that Rostov should have never responded to Col. Bogdanych by alleging that it was the old man who was the liar. Rostov, however, sees the matter as one of personal honor and even considered demanding satisfaction.Kirsten also points out how Rostov can be expected to leave the Hussars and damage their reputation through discussing how they steal from one another.  The integrity of the group means as much to Kirsten and his fellows as Rostov's personal reputation means to him. The greatest sin of this ordeal was Rostov shining light on it. While Denisov wants to punish Telyanin man-to-man, even he sees the folly of Rostov and the need to account for his behavior. The overarching obligation is to promote regimental harmony.Through the lecture, Rostov develops an understanding of the dynamic and is reduced to tears. He voices that will accept any punishment/extra duty and swears he can be relied on to demonstrate his courage and loyalty in the upcoming campaign. However, he will not apologize, saying “I will not allow ANYONE to call me a liar”. The young man's obstinacy causes Denisov to burst out laughing. Denisov informs Rostov that his posture will only make the situation worse as Bogdanych can be vindictive. Kirsten realizes the matter has reached an impasse but he and the other officers respect the young man's defense of himself as well as his coming to the aid of Capt. Denisov. Interrupting the gathering is Zherkov, who was transferred to the Hussars after being banished from headquarters. He has to pay the price for his own recent failings. He announces that the men are being sent to fight and orders are to march the next day.Tolstoy conveys that in lulls of army life (where there is no active fight), a dispute like this will garner all the attention. The stealing of a few coins and recriminations over same can lead soldiers to nearly killing one another – when they should all be on the same side. However, once the fighting starts – it is the type of incident overtaken by much greater priorities involving immanent life and death.

The story moves to the small German village of Zalzeneck, a few miles from Kutuzov's headquarters in Braunau. Here, we catch up with Nikolai Rostov. Nikolai returns to camp with a small group who were foraging for hay. Nikolai is serving with the Pavlograd Hussars.  Pavlograd was settled in the 1770s by Zaporizhian Cossacks. The area was named in 1783 for future Czar Paul, with “Pavlograd” meaning “Town of Paul.” The “Hussar” designation stems from the hussar units of Serbia and Hungary in the 15th and 16th centuries. They became known for dashing attacks, elaborate uniforms, curved swords, and high causality rates.Many hussar units within the Russian empire had large contingents of ethnic Ukrainians, including descendants of Cossack officers. From 1648 – 1764 many Cossacks lived in their own Hetmanate, which had democratic standards. Cossacks were of mixed ethnic backgrounds and often runaways from the surrounding powers – including Polish, Ottoman and Muscovy/Russia. Cossacks had a sense of being freeman and led raids on Ottomans who enslaved Slavs.As Nikolai returns to camp, he is in a jubilant mood. Bondarenko, described as “the Ukrainian” offers to care for Nikolai's horse. Nikolai offers kind words though it is clear Bonderenko is in a subservient role. Further, Nikolai has the reputation of distributing generous gratuities to those who assist him.  Tolstoy recognizes Ukrainians as a distinct people – and this is notable. When Nikolai arrives at his quarters he sees the German land owner. They wish each other heart-felt pleasantries.  The host is happy to be quartering the friendly young man. Given Nikolai is from aristocracy, he is able to share quarters with squadron commander “Vasska” Denisov. The nickname "Vasska" was common for someone from a rural background.Once inside, Nikolai realizes Denisov hasn't come home, which implies he was out gambling. Denisov soon arrives and laments his losses at cards. He is in a foul mood as his servant, Lavrushka, assists helps him with his clothes and prepares him tea. Denisov wishes there were women around and also that the battle would start. He feels there is not much to do but sit around and drink. Denisov asks Nikolai to count the money in his purse – knowing the officer he owes money to is coming to collect. This demonstrates a relationship of trust and also subordination.  Lt. Telyanin then arrives and talks with Denisov about his drubbing. Upon hearing Telyanin, Nikolai hides the coins. Telyanin was described as being shifty with clammy hands.  Telyanin chatted with Nikolai about the horse he previously sold him, which Nikolai suspects he paid too much for. There was a problem with the equine's strut and Telyanin instructs that he will teach Nikolai how to shoe the beast properly. When Telyanin told Nikolai to get the horse, it gave him an opportunity to steal Denisov's purse, which had 10 coins in it.When Rostov returned from shoeing the horse, he found Denisov composing a love letter. Soon after, Denisov realized he would have to retrieve the money to pay his debt.  He flew into a frenzy when his coins were not where it should be, blaming Nikolai as well as his servant. Denisov threatened to horsewhip them both. He got physical with poor Lavrushka, knocking the servant against the wall. Nikolai interceded, saying he knew what happened and would get the money back. Nikolai tracked Telyanin down at a tavern two miles away. At first Rostov observed Telyanin finishing a meal. When Telyanin went to pay, Nikolai approached him and asked to inspect the wallet. The gazes that passed between Nikolai and Telyanin confirmed all suspicions. Nikolai found himself confronting Telyanin in front of superior officers, which was a breach of protocol. Nikolai took possession of the purse but when Telyanin pleaded not to embarrass him, Nikolai threw the money back and left.

Note: There are NO spoilers in the the 2nd Epilogue to War & Peace, which is analyzed in bonus chapters. This final part of the novel involves a metaphysical exploration of the philosophy underlying W&P.As Tolstoy (through Marya Bolkonskaya) expressed early in the novel, it is preferable to abide by the laws of Christ rather than academic sources.Tolstoy posits that history cannot take a step forward {meaning an understanding of history can't be approached} until there is a return to belief in a divinity that interferes in human affairs. Though Tolstoy wants to advance his Faith in an all-knowing and omni-benevolent God, he realizes within the age of Enlightenment, such a switch is not possible. The subtext is to trust the wisdom of God more than “enlightened minds” trying to interpret history.Tolstoy attempts to conceptualize the concept of power and what he means is the force that produces historical events, a province formerly attributed to God. His memorable definition of power is “the collective will of a people transferred to a ruler by either express or unspoken consent.” Essentially, he sets up a nature of power only to challenge it.Tolstoy stresses that power comes from the people and is given away. He argues that we take for granted Napoleon could raise 600,000 men from a cross-section of Europe to go to war. In Tolstoy's view, Napoleon had no supernatural qualities nor moral force. Though critical, Tolstoy feels studying Napolean leads to a closer understanding of the nature of power – even if the efforts lays bare our limitations.Tolstoy points out how various historical figures had immense influence but lacked morality. He references Louis XI and the Austrian diplomat, Klemens Von Metternich. He was searching for the set of qualities they had allowing them to wield such influence. Tolstoy then questions whether leaders regarded as subpar are representative of any collective will.  He then acknowledges how mistakes, accidents and unexpected developments precipitate major events. Palace coups, for example, begin with designs of such a small group that it is difficult to associate them with a collective will. Rebellions can also begin with the most unlikely causes – such a Cossack rebellion led by Yemelyan Pugachev, which began after taxation on fishing. We are asked to consider: Are those who led such rebellions motivated by any collective will? When lands are conquered is it ever representative of the will of the people conquered?Tolstoy also ponders: when power is transferred (by a supposed collective will) is it conditionally or unconditionally transferred? He explores whether rulers break spoken or unspoken covenants and forfeit power.   He expresses that leaders must be held to do the right thing but acknowledges the complexity of determining what is right. It is something of a magical formula. Such unknowns can include: taxing a population too much or too little; not granting freedoms vs. being too permissive; not keeping up with the times vs. respecting tradition. He appears to be comparing the values of a given time (such as “equality,” “enlightenment” and “progressivism”) with the timeless values found in Scripture. He speaks to the changing values of historians/academics and highlights how such perceptions effect how they judge events.Ultimately, Tolstoy sees a problem with historical analysis and presses on the inability to determine causes. He argues that the belief in a God who controls events, common among peasants, is just as valid as any level of historical analysis. This chapter is something of a challenge to intelligentsia. Tolstoy wrote 300+ chapters of W&P to express that it is impossible for humans to pin down the causes of Napoleon's invasion of Russia. Nevertheless amidst the tumult -- he was able to portray the greatness that can't help but shine through the most trying of circumstances. 

General Kutuzov remains adamant about not sending his men into action. He is holding out despite appeals of Austrians leadership, who wish make use of his nearly arrived forces. Kutuzov is portrayed as knowing an attack would be foolhardy. He makes his position known to representatives of the Hofkriegsrat – the Austrian Council of War, who developed a reputation of bureaucratic decision-making.  Kutuzov uses a correspondence of the Archduke to demonstrate his exhausted men are not needed, as the missive announces the Austrians are Masters of Ulm, ready to deal with whatever the French throw at them. More recent intelligence suggests the opposite, which is quickly and dramatically confirmed. The camp in Braunnau gets word of Austria's historic defeat in Ulm, Bavaria (October 16th - 19th of 1805) and it is (fictionally) delivered by General Mack himself. Historically, Napoleon forced a surrender of tens of thousands after a masterful encircling maneuver. This victory continued build his mythic reputation as one of the great generals. Napoleon provoked the conflict when he knew much of the Czar's forces were still marching to link up with the Austrians. The Austrians expected Italy to be the main battleground and put the bulk of their forces there. They maintained a smaller force in Bavaria and that is where Napoleon focused.We catch up with Prince Andrei, who is enthralled with his role as closest aide to Kutuzov. His work involves receiving the latest war updates and drawing up memoranda. He has learned much since he linked up with Kutuzov in Poland. Andrei's intelligence and work ethic is well-respected. Many see Andrei as destined for greatness while others notice a coldness. Nevertheless, the way Andrei carries himself displays how well he adapted to military life.Andrei encounters a bandaged Austrian general, who is revealed to be the “Unfortunate Mack,” who discloses the events at Ulm. Kutuzov realized his troops would have to enter the fray. There would be no further delay.  Andrei quickly grasped the significance of the moment. He would be introduced to battle where so many of his fellow countrymen, now so full of life, would fall. He felt conflicted. Though he would not overtly express it, he was satisfied the “arrogant Austrians” suffered humiliation from Napoleon, who remained his hero.Andrei then ran into two of his less-serious colleagues; Nevitsky & Zherkov, who did not yet hear of the defeat and were irreverent toward Austrian leadership (making mock gestures as they walked by). Andrei set these men straight telling them not to play the fool. He took Nevitsky aside and lectured to accept the Austrians as brothers in a common cause. He lectured they should act united in grieving losses and celebrating victories. Otherwise, they are rendered mere mercenaries.

Along comes bouncing a light blue Austrian carriage escorted by Croatian horsemen, which is appropriate for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It is time for the inspection of the newly arrived regiment. Out steps General Kutuzov along with his unnamed Austrian counterpart. As Kutuzov walks the line, he is pleased with the disposition of his troops. He notices the atrocious state of their boots, which the Austrians should have replaced. He points this out...diplomatically. Kutuzov graciously stops to speak with a few soldiers, some of whom he recognizes from past engagements. One is Captain Timohin, who Kutuzuv served with during the infamous Siege of Izmail (or Ismail) in 1790.  This reference points out Kutuzov's experience in major conflicts. The siege was historically important as Izmail was a fortress at the center of an oblast (province) once controlled by the Ottomans. Thought impregnable, when the Russians breached the walls, the Muslim population was massacred.Kutuzov addressed Timohin out of respect -- but it made his red-nosed comrade nervous. Thus, Kutuzov made the reunion brief. He later inquired how Timohin was performing to one of the commanders, while making clear his old friend was a good man. Kutuzov, in a jovial mode, noted how Timohin once had a prediction for Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and exultation. He opined how "we all have our little weaknesses."  Kutuzov is portrayed as having great respect for those he served with as well as being forgiving of imperfections.  Close to Kutuzov was Andrei Bolkonsky, who reminded the General to address Dolokhov. Kutuzov informs Dolokhov that he can regain his office if he proves his worth. Dolokhov is thankful for the opportunity. Unlike Timohin, Dolokhov was not nervous and his demeanor breached the veneer of the deferential relationship. Overall, the inspection was looked upon as a success and the men were put at ease once Kutuzov left. One of the commanders ordered the soldiers be provided a round of Vodka. The group joked, insulted one another and engaged in soldierly banter. Some wondered when they would enter the fight. One pointed out that while Kutuzov had only eye (historically true), he could “see” more than most. A drummer struck up a tune that enabled those motivated to sing a military anthem praising Kutuzov. It was formerly a melody that would motivate soldiers to fight the Ottomans, now it was serving the same purpose against the French.Then Zherkov, an old acquaintance of Dolokhov, approached Dolokhov. Zherkov did this upon noticing Dolokhov was singled out by the high commander. Once upon a time they both ran with the same wild set in St. Petersburg. Zherkov is now a musician for a Hussar regiment. Dolokhov knew the approach was only due to him being singled out - and remained distant. He refused Zherkov's invitation to play cards as he swore it off - for the time being.

Part 2 of Book 1 takes place in the forests outside Braunau, in the Archduchy of Austria, and close to the conflict engulfing Europe.Thousands of soldiers from the Russian Empire marched 700 miles eastward to link up with their Austrian allies. Commanding them is General Mikhail Kutuzov. Focused on is the Third Company of the Semyonovsky Regiment of about 2,000 men.  They are camping near Braunau and are quite the curiosity to the locals. The troops are naturally exhausted. However, they are intrigued by the Austrian splendor: the scenery, the orchards, the masonry and the tiled roofs. The mid-level commanders receive word there will be an inspection, where Kutuzov and his Austrian counterpart will walk the lines. Their intuition says to get the men in their “parade” uniforms, so they can look their best. They yell commands on the thought it is: “better to bow too low; than not low enough.” The men do a splendid job but can't cover up the horrible state of their boots, as the Austrians have been tardy in providing replacements.  Tolstoy is making the point that Kutuzov does not have a reliable ally. The Austrians are under the supervision of General Karl Mack von Leiberich.After some time, up comes riding an aide and a Cossack. This is the first look at a Cossack, who generally held connections to Ukrainian identity - though they were a great mix of ethnicities who once lived as freemen beyond the borders of local empires. Word is given that General Kutuzov wants his men to look as they did when they arrived -- tired and poorly. Kutuzov knows if Austrian leadership sees them in such condition, his men will NOT be sent right into battle. The message to change gets relayed and the regiment is frustrated - but what's a soldier to do?  Once the men put back on their marching gear, one soldier sticks out like a sore thumb, as he has on a different color coat. He is wearing a uniform associated with officers of rank.  This creates commotion and he is treated like an undisciplined rogue. It is Feydor Dolokhov, who had retained his officer's gear after being demoted for boorish behavior. He was not given replacement clothes and needed what he wore for the long march. A commander dresses him down and tells him to change but Dolokhov sternly responds that will not bear insults. His boldness quiets his superior. 

This is a 28-minute analysis of the 25 chapters of Part 1 of Book 1. It describes the context of the events Tolstoy brings to life, which starts in July of 1805. The analysis delves into major themes including war always seemingly on the horizon as well as the psychological battle of war & peace (voyna i mir) we all face. The discussion highlights how Tolstoy portrays the dying era of Catherine the Great (r. 1762-1796) with fictional characters such as Count Kirill Bezukhov (the first character to die) and retired General Nikolai Bolkonsky. Their sons, Pierre & Andrei, are the protagonists and two of the great characters of literature. At the outset of the novel, they are enamored with the chief adversary or the work, Napoleon. Russian aristocracy, as well as French exiles, view Napoleon as a malevolent threat. However, Pierre and Andrei view him of as a champion of a new era. More progressive minds of the time saw the status quo in the Russian Empire as a handful of nobles being supported by a peasant class tied to the land.Given what Ukraine is being put through (and has historically suffered) by Russian aggression and policy, context is given to how a large number of the serfs referenced by Tolstoy were located in Ukraine and also how the Cossacks referenced have traditionally formed a basis of Ukrainian identity.Pierre begins the novel as the illegitimate but favored son of Count Bezukhov and quickly winds up receiving the entire Bezukhov estate. This is despite efforts of the Count's other relatives (Vissily Kuragin & the Count's nieces) to deprive him of same. Tolstoy also contrasts the metropolitan areas, (St. Petersburg & Moscow) with the country-side, Smolensk, where General Bolkonsky lives. The General has two children, Andrei & Mayra. Andrei readies to set out in his father's footsteps, taking his first military position as an aide to historic General Mikhail Kutuzov. Andrei admires Pierre as he sees within him a transcendent spirit.  Andrei has a beautiful wife who is pregnant, but he has never developed an affinity for her.   Andrie's sister, Mayra, is religiously devoted and exemplifies Tolstoy's faith, as she runs her life by the teachings of Christ. This was not always the case but Scripture very much became Tolstoy's guiding light. Marya faults her father and brother for not having sufficient devotion.This section brings the reader closer to war with France. Russia is allied with Austria and plans are to march westward and link up. Most of the young men we meet, either already have or will take up a position that will get them involved in the conflict. This includes Andrei, Nikolai Rostov (Hussars); Boris (Imperial Guard); Lt. Alphonse Berg, Anatole Kuragin and Fyodor Dolokhov (Semyonovsky regiment), and Hippolyte Kuragin (Diplomat).  It remains a mystery where Pierre will find himself. In this early “peace” of the novel, we get a look at a soirée in St. Petersburg, the Rostov name-day celebration in Moscow, a night of gambling and hijinks, young love surrounding the Rostov children, as well as a lot of talk of the coming war.Thank you very much for listening and it is my hope you find benefit of using this material as a supplement to your reading.

Prince Andrei is about to set out to become aide-de-camp to General Kutuzov. He has on his traveling coat while meticulously packing his effects. He pays special attention to his Turkish pistols and a saber -- spoils of victory his father gifted him from the Siege of Ochakov in 1778. The weapons illustrate the significance of the conflicts his (fictional) father participated in. They also highlight the legacy Andrei feels pressured to live up to.   Ochokov is presently named Ochakiv and is on the winding southern coast of Ukraine, about 40 miles east (and slightly north) of Odessa. In 2022 and 2023 Ochakiv has been attacked by Russia but valiantly holds as a Ukrainian port city of about 15,000. Before 1778 it was the capital of an Ottoman province. Prince Andrei was in the frame of mind one can arrives at when embarking on one of life's transcendent journeys. He contemplated the fear inherent in war as well as leaving his pregnant wife. His sister interrupted, initially visualizing her brother as a mischievous boy but realized he was now a stern man ready to face Napoleon.  Marya tells her brother what a treasure he has for a wife in that Lise has such a merry heart. She begs him to look empathetically upon Lise's plight of being left in the countryside. While Marya appreciates her quiet life; Lise is a young woman of society. In Bald Hills there will only be her and Mademoiselle Amélie Bourienne to keep Lise company. Andrei describes not liking Amélie whereupon Marya defends her, lauding her good nature and providing Amélie's backstory. Father adopted Amélie as a poor French orphan. She is said to be very pretty and often reads aloud (in French) to father. Marya tells her brother that he is a good man but suffers from an intellectual pride. When Andrei indirectly responds that life with General Bolkonsky must be challenging, Marya feels their father should only inspire veneration. The only thing she finds lacking in father is his lack of religious devotion. She finds similar fault in Andrei.Marya takes occasion to present Andrei with a family heirloom, which she begs him to wear at all times. It is a small oval icon of Jesus Christ in a silver setting. It was worn by their paternal grandfather in all his military efforts. Service during major battles is very much a Bolkonsky tradition. Andrei jokes he will wear it if sufficiently light but observes his sister's demeanor and meets the moment with the proper level of sincerity. In presenting it, Marya makes sure to cross herself and kiss the icon. Marya reminds Andrei not to judge Lise too harshly. Andrei picks up on the fact Lise has been complaining about their loveless marriage. Andrei reveals he is not happy and neither is his wife. Marya advices that he should have turned to God to pray for the love that is lacking. Andrei leaves the room and meets, in a secluded hallway, Mademoiselle Bourienne, who had the habit of placing herself in his path in dark corridors. She presented a sweet smile but Andrei's response was an expression of disgust so severe that Amélie quickly retreated. Amélie also lives a life of solitude that she yearns to break free from.Andrei was then summoned to his father for a private send off. Nikolai commends his son on not being tied to his “wife's apron strings” and recognizing their rule for living should be “the Service before everything.” As Nikolai speaks he is fervently writing various materials of import to give to his son. One letter is to General Kutuzov, directing him to make proper use of his son.  Andrei requests that his father arrange for the optimum care in relation to Lise's pregnancy. He notes that his wife has bad premonitions about the birth.  His father agrees but senses Andrei's marriage is not in a healthy state. Nikolai advises Andrei there is nothing to be done as one (in their social class) “cannot get unmarried.” Nikolai also tells his son not to stay too long as an adjunct, implying he should quickly move on to take a command. He also gave his son his personal writings of military exploits to relay to the Emperor upon Nikolai's death.  He also asks his son to administrate a financial prize for the person who writes a sufficient history of General Suvorov's campaigns.Nikolai then gives his son the most profound advise he can offer. “Remember one thing. If you get killed, it will be a grief to me in my old age. But if I were to hear that you had not behaved like the son of Nikolai Bolkonsky, I should be – ashamed!”Andrei understands the message and replies that if he is killed to raise his child (if a son) in Bald Hills, under his tutelage. The General, not one for overlong good-byes, tells Andrei to head off. As Andrei departs, he sees his wife and sister. He is dismissive of Lise, telling her to “go through her little performance.” The Little Princess was genuinely distraught the time had come for Andrei to leave. She became weak and fainted. Andrei helped her to an armchair, kissed his sister and bid her “Adieu.” He then left for the front in a coach pulled by six horses.

An intimate meal is held at the Bolkonsky estate on the sole day Andrei will reconnect with his father, Nikolay. The following day Andrei will be heading off to fight the indomitable forces of Napoleon.  Awaiting in the dining room is Andrei, Lise, Marya, Mlle Bourienne, as well as Nikolay's architect, Mikhail Ivanovich, who is an odd addition. Usually a sticker for social class divisions, the old General invites his architect (considered a servant) to dine with him. This appears to be an attempt to teach his daughter that everyone is equal, in line with more liberal thinking. Nikolay does not keep a circle of close friends, so he may also be demonstrating a need to have a companion, even though Ivanovich largely remains silent. As he waits for his father, Andrei is made to laugh by a new addition on the wall, a framed genealogical tree tracing the Bolkonsky family roots to the ancient princes of the Kyivan-Rus' and the legendary Rurik. Such family trees were fictional but taken seriously by the aristocrats who commissioned them. Andrei saw through the self-aggrandizement.The “King of Prussia” arrives to the meal when various clocks strike two o'clock. The flock of house servants well-outnumber those who have a seat at the table. Nikolay leads the conversation, at first talking with his daughter-in-law, Lise, about her pregnancy.Nikolay then leads a discussion regarding the Coalition against Napoleon. Andrei is surprised of his father's ability to keep abreast of military news given he lives in secluded Bald Hills. Nickolay reveals he spends a lot of time running through scenarios on how the military effort can play out. He doesn't think much of Napoleon but thinks equally little of Napoleon's adversaries, including the leaders of Russia and Austria. In his mind, nobody lives up to the leaders of his generation, such as Alexander Suvorov and Grigory Potemkin -- titans, responsible for unprecedented expansion and success.Suvorov was famous for leading efforts against the Ottomans and Poles and suppressing a peasant revolt. Potemkin successfully fought the Ottomans. He came up with the military plan that secured Crimea from Ottoman influence.  For hundreds of years Crimea had been run by the Crimean Khanate. Potemkin was also a favorite and lover of Catherine the Great. For decades Potemkin was regarded as the most powerful man in the country.The awe Nikolay holds for his own (dying) generation rivals what young men, both followers and adversaries of Napoleon, have for the French Leader. Even though Tolstoy critiques Napoleon he is compelled to acknowledge how he is regarded as a transcendent figure. When Andrei defends Napoleon's reputation from his father's insults, the Old Man gets defensive. More specifically, Andrei points out what happened to the mighty Suvorov when he met French forces in 1799. This effort, more a battle against nature than the French, wore down Suvorov and he died the following year. However, this march through the Swiss Alps saved more men than expected. The perceived affront causes Nickolay to lose his temper and throw a plate.The elder Bolkonsky calms himself and asks what his son thinks of General Mikhail Kutuzov. Andrei avoids the subject. That question will be answered in the rest of the book as Kutuzov's leadership was instrumental in defending against Napoleon's invasion.   The meal ends and when exiting, Lise points out to Mayra how intelligent General Bolkonsky is and also how he has the ability to intimidate. Mayra responds with a blind adulation and just remarks how kind her father is. Marya sees only the good - like the ideal daughter.

Prince Andrei and his pregnant wife (Lise) arrive Andrei's father's Smolensk estate known as “Bald Hills.” Andrei only plans to spend the night, as he is rushing toward the career path of his father, Nikolai, who performed a lifetime of (fictional) military service. Nikolai Bolkonsky (nicknamed “The King of Prussia”) is symbolic of the era of expansion and colonization under Catherine the Great.West of Moscow, this involved partitions of Poland, which was split between Russia, Prussia and Habsburg-Austria. A good portion of the territory of modern Ukraine was moved from Polish to Russian influence. These partitions motivated many Poles to join Napoleon's army. This period also involved Russians battling the Ottoman Empire, where Russia gained control of territory north of the Black Sea. The elder Bolkonsky would have internalized all this “glory.” With this epic age passing, Andrei is experiencing a new world ushered in by Napoleon, where Russia is on the precipice of major change. Tolstoy questions whether it is the man himself (Bonaparte) or the vast movement of men that created an inevitable new age. As Andrei arrived to the estate by horse-drawn-carriage, he could hear his sister practicing her clavichord. They are greeted by Mademoiselle Amelie Bourienne, who takes them to Marya, as her father is taking his afternoon nap. It is a warm meeting between sisters-in-law. They discuss the latest gossip and news in the big cities (like who is marrying who). Andrei stood by, the subject of his sister's warm gaze.  Lise feels abandoned with her husband leaving for war, as she is progressing in her pregnancy. The house servant, old Tikhon, takes Andrei to his father, who is getting dressed for a formal meal. The old man sarcastically notes how his son is off to “conquer” Napoleon. Andrei then greets his father with a respectful kiss. They talk about the upcoming conflict with the General revealing what he has learned about the military Coalition against Napoleon. He speaks about who is leading the efforts and name drops a "General Tolstoy," who was likely an ancestor of the author. He asks his son to give his understanding of the overarching plan against Napoleon. Andrei notes that the strategy is that Russia intends to invade Prussia, to “convince” them to align -- a forced treaty. Some units will also unite with Sweden (already an ally). it is expected that 220,000 Austrians and 100,000 Russians will operate in Italy and the Rhine. Other forces, including the English, will land in Naples. In total, the Coalition will be 500,000 strong in a simultaneous attack. The Old General astutely responds that Napoleon surely has a plan of his owe -- and his demeanor implies that it is likely better. He then sings himself a nursery song about a men who go off to war, while family awaits news of their fate. He sings: “Malbrough s'en va-t-en guerre" written after the battle of Malplaquet in France in 1709, during the war of Spanish Succession. It is about the supposed death of the Duke of Marlborough – John Churchill. It has a similar structure as “For He's a Jolly Good Fellow.” Napoleon is rumored to have sung the song to himself on occasion.

This episode involves Marya Bolkonskaya reading Julie Karagina's letter and covers Marya's response. Each missive is written in French and the content serves as a way to bring the reader up-to-speed on the time transpiring since Count Bezukhov's death. Each letter also serves as an exposition of the nature of the characters: Julie is revealed as a somewhat vapid heiress and Marya, the ideal daughter of her father and God.Julie begins through speaking about her affinity for Marya and commenting on how Julie draws moral strength from Marya's penetrating eyes. Tolstoy notes how Marya has something of a sickly look and thin features. Yet Marya has deep, luminous eyes, which usually express her melancholy demeanor. Her eyes are so lovely that in spite of the plainness of her face, Marya holds a charm more attractive than beauty. As has often been said, the eyes are the window to the soul. Julie reminisces about the happy times the two spent when Julie visited Bald Hills. Julie relays that in Moscow the talk is focused on war. The Emperor and one of Julie's brothers have already left for the front. Julie expressed great affinity for Nikolai Rostov. His leaving for the war caused her grief. She describes Nikolai as having so much nobility, candor and heart. Their short acquaintance was one of her sweetest enjoyments. She found the relationship poetic and pure. She expresses that while Nikolai is too young to be considered for marriage, being around him is what her heart needed.Julie notes that the Count's death has left Pierre with the finest fortune in the country. The Count's three nieces got very little and Prince Vissily received nothing. Attitudes have changed toward Pierre. Every mother is lining up their daughter to be near him. Julie never thought that much of the new Count, though she is in the running for a possible match with him. She notes that Marya is also being considered for Anatole Kuragin, Prince Vassily's son. Julie warns that Anatole is handsome but wild.  Julie then advices Marya to read the Christian mystical book, A Key to the Mysteries of Nature, which has a Masonic or occult bent to it. This is likely referring to the work of German author, Karl Von Eckartshausen, who was influential in German romanticism.The Princess was energized and immediately wrote back. She notes that she is lonely in Bald Hills and states “If we had not religion to console use, life would be very sad.”  Marya can't relate to the romantic love Julie writes about; but relates to Christian love, namely the love of one's neighbor and love of one's enemies, as the highest form. Marya speaks how the news of the Count's death affected her father deeply, as the Count and her father were the last of an elite social class. Marya relays how she has known Pierre since a boy and that he has an excellent heart. She quotes the Gospel (Mathew 19:23-24), noting that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. She finds this verse explains Vassily's behavior in trying to usurp the Count's fortune.  She worries that Pierre will now be burdened with temptation. Marya thanks Julie for the book but says it will not bear good fruit, as opposed to traditional lessons from Scripture. She will stick to the Gospels & Epistles and submit to those principles. She warns against letting “our feeble minds” wander.Marya acknowledges Vassily has called upon her father. She is not excited but regards marriage as a divine institution and is ready for the obligations if called upon to fulfill them. Marya describes her brother (Andrei) will be visiting, but will be headed off to War. She notes how war affected Smolensk, where one expects to find Nature's peace.  She witnessed peasants from her estate being conscripted. She was horrified by mothers, wives and children watching their men go off to war. Humanity has forgotten He who preached love and forgiveness; and Marya can't see how men ascribe the greatest merit to the art of killing.As Marya finished her letter, Mlle. Bourienne interrupted, warning that her father was in a foul mood. Marya responds that she will not tolerate anyone critiquing him. 

For the first 20 chapters the action centered around the major cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, circa 1805. This chapter heads to the countryside to one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, Smolensk, founded in 863 A.D. It is west of Moscow and a bit south, not that far east of the Belarusian border. Smolensk was part of the Kyivan Rus', the first state to rise among Eastern Slavs. While the early history of Ukraine is the history of Russia, the converse is not true. Generally, many think “Russia,” when they hear “Rus''” but there is so much more to the Rus', who were Scandinavian Vikings. Rus' is also thought to be a navigational term meaning “rudder.” Smolensk was also part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Grand Duchy of Moscow, Tsardom of Russia, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Russian Empire. It has remained on an important trading and invasion route. The story moves to the fictional “Bald Hills,” in Smolensk, the estate of Prince Andrei's father, Prince Nikolai Bolkonsky. Nikolai is a fictional general who had a falling out with a historical emperor not held in high regard – Paul.  Tolstoy desires to build up Nikolai's status, so he puts him at odds with the hapless Paul, who was likely killed by his own officers. Paul was Catherine the Great's son and Alexander's brother. The Old General was banished by Paul from the major cities. Even though he is now free (under Alexander I) to go where he wishes, Nikolai chooses not to leave Bald Hills. He lives with his daughter Maria/Marya, whom he tutors, and Mayra has a companion of French derision, Mademoiselle Amelie Bourienne. There are also a number of serfs on his estate.The first part of this chapter is a character study in Nikolai and this episode will concentrate on him, leaving a second part of chapter 22 to deal with his daughter Marya. Unlike a writer like Hemingway, who often lets the action tell the story, Tolstoy is descriptive of his characters' traits.Nikolai is industrious and orderly, which perhaps earned him the nickname “The King of Prussia.” Nikolai is full of energy and intelligence and does not tolerate idleness nor superstition.He spends his time managing his property, serving as superintendent, architect, and even doing gardening. He also spends hours at his lathe, as a carpenter. He exercises the mind as much as the body, writing a military memoir and working out math problems. In his study, books and plans are all over. He keeps himself busy at every moment with continuous, varied and regulated activity. It keeps his body and mind strong.While exacting, Nikolai is not cruel. He inspires both fear and respect. One area that he lacks impressiveness is his physical appearance. He is described as quite clownish or at least out-of-date. He is short, has bushy grey eyebrows and wears a powdered wig. He carries the odor of tobacco and old age. Nevertheless, he retains a spark in eyes, one demonstrating youthful energy. He is the type who appears for his meals at exactly the same time, which brings him to the morning he expects the arrival of his son, who is traveling westward to war. Andrei is also dropping off his pregnant wife, Lise.After his own geometry studies, Nikolai comes to meet his daughter, Marya. Knowing he is coming, Marya makes the sign of the cross in hopes he is in a decent mood. Nikolai tells his daughter she has a letter for her from Julie Kuragin. He goes out of his way to say that he won't read it. He reads every third or fourth letter to see if she is involved in idle gossip and needs correction. Marya doesn't mind if he reads all her letters.He then draws her attention to a geometry problem and she quickly becomes embarrassed at lacking understanding. Sometimes, he flings the math book across the room when frustrated. After a mild outburst, he gave his daughter a comforting touch. He explained the answer and importance of mathematics. He suggests she persevere and rise above those who don't work at such problems.  Nikolai also notes Julie sent Marya a religious book called “The Key to The Mystery.” It is clear he wasn't impressed with the selection.The Princess left with her letter and book to her room and we get a description of her. She looks in the mirror and sees her sickly and plain face. Nevertheless, there is something majestic about her magnificent eyes. She put the book down and opened her letter with eagerness.  

Prince Vassily and Katerina are ready to make their move to deprive Pierre of his inheritance. First, Vassily wishes to get Anna and Pierre out of the way so the Count's will can be promptly destroyed. Therefore, Vassily invites them to take some tea or a slight snack via the spread set out for well-wishers.  Pierre is escorted to the tea area by one of the Count's nieces and Anna goes as well but remains close enough to keep track of the saboteurs. At some point, Katerina gets up and walks toward the Count's bedroom. She has the secured critical papers in her hand, which Anna recognizes are the Count's testamentary documents awarding Pierre his fortune. In a bold move, Anna blocks Katerina's way, as Anna realizes there will be an attempt to destroy the papers. Vassily, with mock-politeness, begs Anna to let Katerina pass.Voices are raised as Katerina argues with Anna, who stands her ground. A struggle ensues with the women tugging at the folder in public view during the most solemn of moments. They are too “in-the-moment” to care as they fly around the room in a comical scene.Vassily approaches and with all the authority he can muster, directs them both to release the documents. Katerina does but Anna holds fast. Vassily can only threaten that Anna will answer for her disgraceful actions. Katerina then screams, “You vile woman,” and appears to successfully snatch the folder but fate intervenes - namely, an announcement that the Count's death is imminent. The opulent door to the Count's bedroom opened abruptly, which was a signal the moment had come.  This caused Katerina to lose her strength and she dropped the portfolio. Anna scooped it up and ran in the room and quickly learned the Count had died. With the death, there would be no further violence and the matter of succession was effectively decided.Katerina left the room and relayed to Pierre, in angry tone, “Yes, now you can rejoice. This is what you have been waiting for.” Vassily went over to Pierre and relayed heartfelt condolences.Anna was the last to come out, approached Pierre and told him, “He is no more.” She later escorted Pierre to a dark drawing room, so he could be alone and rest.  She got him up the next day and lectured him that he will be in command of a great fortune. She thinks it will not change his character, but will impose new duties.Anna then makes her play, explaining how the Count promised her, the day before yesterday, not to forget Boris. She hopes that Pierre will honor his father's “wishes.” The Count would have been too sick to relay any such message, but helping Boris is a tiny price to Anna for the inheritance she ensured remained with Pierre. The new Count Bezukhov did not take in any of this, he just sort of stared in response.Anna however, relayed what happened to all of Moscow. She described the Count's end as affecting and edifying and that the last moments between father and son were transcendent.  This is the death of an old order with a new one on the horizon, personified by Pierre. 

Chapters 11-20 continue to establish background information on the main characters and central conflict (Napoleon's future invasion). It is slow going without piercing hooks. It is an exposition of the peace before the war. After being banished from St. Petersburg, Pierre has been staying at his ill father's estate in Moscow. He is left alone by those caring for the Count and kept away from his father. In solitude, Pierre play-acts crossing the English channel as a conquering Napoleon, ready to topple PM William Pitt. The fictional Pierre spent years in Europe in the aftermath of the French Revolution and Napoleon's ascension would have been of profound influence. Pierre learned to speak French and German -- similar to Tolstoy.  Pierre's persona witnesses the falls of kings and an age that continues to shape the world. Pierre wants to contribute to this era but has little idea how. We also encounter Vera Rostova, the unfavored Rostov child. Countess Rostova is dismissive of Vera and her siblings call her what is intended as an insult, Madame de Genlis, (Stéphanie Félicité) who was a historical feminist of renown. Madame de Genlis was a dynamo who tutored French royals and could write novels the same length as Tolstoy. It was kind of Tolstoy to give her a nod. Vera's only suitor, Lt. Alphonse Berg, is pursuing Vera for the connection to her wealthy family. A central event of this section is the magnificent name-day feast at the Rostov's Moscow estate in honor of mother and daughter, both named after St. Natalia. It is something usually depicted in visual adaptations of War & Peace. The evening starts with cigar smoking and political talk. An old bachelor, ShinShin, notes that Russia should not be eager to engage Napoleon. He voices that Napoleon stopped Austria's “cackle,” and Russia's turn is likely next. Lt. Berg tells anyone who will listen that he expects to profit from his commission in the service.There is an orderly procession into the dining area for the actual dinner. There are enumerable courses and servants attending to the guests. It ends with dessert (pineapple ice cream), and then moves onto cards and dancing. Ilya Rostov, the host, steals the show when he puts his heart into a folk dance called the “Daniel Cooper.” During the dinner, Vera informs Sonya that she should not consider marriage with her brother (Nikolai) as a realistic prospect. There is an intent to hurt, perhaps because Vera is usually the person made miserable with insults.  Vera's words crush the devoted Sonya, who has spent years in the Rostov household. She is a relation but with little to her name.  Sonya is made to feel even worse when she sees Julie Kuragina warming up to Nikolai during dinner. Natasha comforts her.Afterward, Natasha and her brother sing for the assembled guests.  Natasha also asks Pierre (at the suggestion of her mother) to dance. Pierre complies and there is a notable contrast between the diminutive Natasha and large Pierre.The story moves on to Pierre's father, Count Kirill Bezukhov. The Count is on the precipice of death and lacks the ability to communicate. Anna brings Pierre to the Count during Last Rites. The Count's poor condition likely has made Prince Vasili and the Count's nieces begrudgingly allow Pierre to see his father. The Count summoned Pierre earlier but those around him delayed this meeting.  This is a critical moment for Pierre. He is assisted by Anna Drubetskaya, who feels a sense of duty to help. Anna wanted to ask the Count for money but found the Count was too ill to communicate. She made herself useful by imposing herself as s final caretaker. She wants to be close to the power center. Prince Vasili reveals an important secret to the Count's eldest niece, Katerina. Vasili knows that the Count made a will making Pierre his sole heir. Vasili wants to divert the funds to himself -- as his wife and the nieces would otherwise be in the line to inherit. Vasili asks Katerina if she knows where the Count keeps his will and learns it is in the portfolio underneath the Count's pillow. Prince Vasili aims to get at the documents and destroy them. Pierre is overwhelmed upon seeing the helplessness of his once powerful father. He is given a last moment with his father and becomes emotional. His father notices and tries to say something but nobody understands. When the Count sees Pierre so sad, he gives a final smile of appreciation. He then was turned by a servant and drifted into sleep.

Pierre is taken to the inner sanctum of his father's magnificent estate. The room was filled with family, physicians, and servants. The once powerful Kirill Bezukhov is on the precipice of death.  The name Kirill derives from the Greek name Kyrillos (Κύριλλος), which comes from Kyrios (κύριος), meaning “lord,” or “lordly.”  He is represented as one of Catherine the Great's grandees, meaning a person of very high rank. In giving the character this particular name, Tolstoy captures the nature of his first character to die. The Count was representative of a dying era. In one sense, the age of serfdom is heading towards its own demise and the Count owned tens of thousands of people tied to the soil. New social arrangements are coming, exemplified by other characters, including the chief adversary of the novel, NapoleonThe Count is positioned in an invalid's chair, propped up by pillows.  Tolstoy is highlighting the frailty of the human condition, showing how even the most powerful also have limited strength and time. Nevertheless, there is something transcendent about the Count. His “aristocratic” features include: a handsome face, stately wrinkles, grey curls, stout arms, broad shoulders as well as a wide brow and cheekbones.There was a large case containing religious icons, illuminated by a reddish light, above the Count. Orthodox Clergy surrounded the old man while performing Last Rites. Those in attendance were holding candles and one was placed in the Count's hand. Pierre was given a candle but on each occasion that called for Pierre to cross himself (which the service often mandated), Pierre would absent-mindedly do it with the hand holding the candle. Sofia, the youngest of the Count's nieces (and most "fun-loving") had to hide her face as she was on the verge of laughing. The eldest niece, Katerina, removed herself to speak with Prince Vasili. These two are working to divert the Count's fortune away from Pierre.Dr. Lorrian felt for a pulse and then gave the Count something to drink, a sign there is some life left. After the service, the Count was picked up and moved to his bed. Pierre witnessed the Count unable to respond to being moved and it crushed him to see his father so helpless. Nevertheless, Pierre found that his father's facial features were not diminished by the approach of death. When settled, the Count fastened a look on Pierre with a gaze “of intent and significance that no mortal could fathom.” It was likely a last expression of love. Tolstoy describes this look as saying everything or an indication that there was nothing left to say.  Anna coached Pierre, signaling for him to kiss the Count's hand when appropriate and then take the seat next to him and Pierre nervously followed along. There was great solemnity in this moment. What broke the silence was when muscles in the Count's face began to twitch and the Count's mouth was drawn to one side. It appeared that he wanted to get a few words out. However, only a hoarse sound issued.  Anna tried to interpret what the Count was trying to say but only received a look of frustration. A servant then opined that his Master wanted to be turned. Pierre assisted and experienced debilitating sadness upon noticing his father's lifeless arm.   Father then responded to the caring touch of his son, perhaps noticing a look of genuine concern. A feeble smile appeared on the old man's face and it was a final communication. This caused a lump in Pierre's throat and tears to well up. The count sighed and went to sleep.