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 untrue), 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 begins in the forests outside Braunau, in the Archduchy of Austria, very close to the conflict engulfing Europe.

Thousands of soldiers from the Russian Empire marched 700 miles to link up with Austrian allies.  The Russian contingent is under the command of General Mikhail Kutuzov and Austrians under General Karl Mack von Leiberich.  This section focuses the Third Company of the Semyonovsky Regiment of about 2,000 men.  They are camping near Braunau and are quite the curiosity to locals. The troops are exhausted. However, they are intrigued by the Austrian splendor: the scenery, orchards, masonry and 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. 

After some time, up comes riding an aide, along with 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 prominent empires. Word is given that Kutuzov wants his men to look as they did when they arrived -- tired and poorly. Kutuzov knows once 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 colored 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.

Andrei is about to set out to become aide-de-camp to Gen. 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 of his (fictional) father. They also highlight the legacy Andrei feels pressured to live up to.   

Ochokov (presently Ochakiv) is on the winding southern coast of Ukraine, about 40 miles east and slightly north of Odessa.  Ochakiv has been attacked by Russia but valiantly holds as a Ukrainian port city of about 15K. Before 1778, it was the capital of an Ottoman province. 

Andrei was in the frame of mind one 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 realizing he was now a stern man. 

Marya relays what a treasure Andrei has for a wife. 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 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 very pretty and often reads aloud (in French) to their father. 

Marya tells her brother that he is a good man but suffers from an intellectual pride. When Andrei indirectly responds that life with father must be challenging, Marya expresses he 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 presents Andrei with a family heirloom, a small oval icon of Jesus Christ. It was worn by their paternal grandfather in all his military efforts.  Andrei jokes he will wear it if sufficiently light but observes his sister’s demeanor and meets the moment with proper sincerity.

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 turn to God to pray for the love that is lacking. 

Andrei leaves the room and meets, in a secluded hallway, Amélie. She presented a sweet smile but Andrei’s response was an expression of disgust so severe that Amélie quickly retreated.

Andrei was then summoned to his father. Nikolai commends his son on not being tied to his “wife’s apron strings” and recognizing the rule should be “the Service before everything.” As Nikolai speaks he writes various materials of import. One letter is to Gen. Kutuzov, directing him to make proper use of his son.  

Andrei requests that his father arrange for the optimum care for Lise, who has had bad premonitions about the birth.  His father agrees but senses Andrei's marriage is not healthy. Nikolai advises Andrei there is nothing to be done as one “cannot get unmarried.” 

Nikolai tells his son not to remain an adjunct for long, implying he should quickly take a command. He also gave his son his personal writings of military exploits to relay to the Emperor upon his death. Further, he asks his son to administrate a prize for one who writes a sufficient history of Gen. Suvorov’s campaigns.

Nikolai then imparts, “Remember ... 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 and replies that if he doesn't come back, to raise his child (if a son) in Bald Hills, under his father's tutelage. The General, not one for 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.” 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.