In which Levin undergoes a profound shift in his understanding of his agricultural pursuits, recognising the fruitless strife between himself and his peasants as a reflection of deeper, opposing desires that render his work unfulfilling and distasteful. In this state of disillusionment, he is further troubled by the nearness of Kitty Shtcherbatskaya and the complexities of their past, which compel him to seek solace in the distant marshes for a reprieve from the burdens that weigh heavily upon his heart.