XXVI explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Love and Marriage

  Lavretsky and Lisa's growing intimacy and Lavretsky's questioning of Panshin's suitability as a partner highlight themes of romantic love and marital prospects.

• Religion and Spirituality

  Lisa speaks of praying for Lavretsky and the necessity of being a Christian because of mortality, reflecting her deep religious convictions.

• Art and Creativity

  Lemm's failed song and the discussion of Panshin's musical talent illustrate the struggles and aspirations of artistic creation.

Characters to notice

• Marya Dmitrievna Kalitin

  Visits Vassilyevskoe with her young people, acts condescendingly, and enjoys fishing.

• Lisa Mihalovna

  Engages in a deep conversation with Lavretsky about religion, death, and Panshin; shows her thoughtful and devout nature.

• Fedor Ivanitch Lavretsky

  Hosts the visit, feels a growing intimacy with Lisa, and expresses his doubts about Panshin's heart.

• Christopher Theodor Gottlieb Lemm

  Presents a new song that is unsuccessful, causing him embarrassment and sadness.

• Anton

  Old servant who is fluttered by the guests and insists on serving Marya Dmitrievna properly.

• Vladimir Nikolaitch Panshin

  Mentioned in conversation; Lavretsky questions his heart and character.

Key passages

• “Il n'y a plus maintenant de ces gens comme ça, comme autrefois.”

  There are no longer people like that nowadays, as in the old days.

  Marya Dmitrievna's comment about Anton's old-fashioned service.

• “One must be a Christian, not so as to know the divine... and the... earthly, but because every man has to die.”

  One must be a Christian not to understand the divine or earthly, but because everyone must face death.

  Lisa's profound statement on the necessity of faith in the face of mortality.

• “I talk to her just as if life were not over for me.”

  I speak with her as if my life were not yet finished.

  Lavretsky's internal reflection on his renewed hope through conversation with Lisa.