A House of Gentlefolk · Chapter
XLI explained
Lavretsky spends a day and a half at Vassilyevskoe, tormented by anguish and self-reproach.
What happens
Lavretsky spends a day and a half at Vassilyevskoe, tormented by anguish and self-reproach. He reflects on his past plans and his renewed thirst for happiness, which he now sees as a luxury he does not deserve. He tries to suppress thoughts of Lisa and his own desires, resolves to master himself, and orders his coach to return to town.
Themes in this chapter
Fate and Free Will
Lavretsky struggles with his own choices and the role of fate in his pursuit of happiness, questioning whether he can master his own destiny.
The Past and Memory
Lavretsky is haunted by memories of his mother, his past plans, and the image of his great-grandfather, reflecting on how the past shapes his present anguish.
Characters to notice
- Fedor Ivanitch Lavretsky
Tormented by anguish and self-reproach, he resolves to suppress his desire for happiness and return to town.
- Lisa Mihalovna
Her image continually appears in Lavretsky's thoughts, which he tries to drive away.
- Anton
Old Anton notices Lavretsky's distress, offers advice, and is sorrowful after being rebuked.
- Mihalevitch
Lavretsky recalls Mihalevitch's words about his thirst for happiness.
- Andrei
Lavretsky imagines his great-grandfather Andrey looking contemptuously from a portrait.
- Apraxya
She follows Lavretsky mournfully with her eyes as he departs.
Key passages
“He could not stop long in one place: he was devoured by anguish; he was torn unceasingly by impotent violent impulses.”
He was unable to remain still, consumed by a deep and restless pain that drove him to wander.
Describes Lavretsky's agitated state of mind.
“The thirst for happiness—again the same thirst for happiness.”
His longing for happiness had returned, just as before.
Highlights Lavretsky's recurring desire for personal fulfillment.
“Look round and see who is happy, who enjoys life about you? Look at that peasant going to the mowing; is he contented with his fate?”
Consider the people around you—does the peasant in the field seem satisfied with his lot?
Lavretsky questions the possibility of genuine happiness in life.
“You were only bragging it seems when you said to Panshin that you had come back to Russia to cultivate the soil; you have come back to dangle after young girls in your old age.”
Your claim to Panshin about returning to farm the land was mere boasting; in truth, you came back to pursue young women in your later years.
Lavretsky's self-criticism for abandoning his duties.
“If man did not deceive himself, he could not live on earth.”
Self-deception is necessary for survival.
Reflects Lavretsky's cynical view of human nature.