# XV explained — Anna Karenina

> Chapter companion for Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy.

## What happens

Levin, in a state of heightened, almost supernatural anticipation, waits through the morning for the appointed hour to return to the Shcherbatskys' house. He experiences the world with intense, joyful clarity. Upon his arrival, the household staff's knowing smiles confirm his hopes. He is met by Mademoiselle Linon and then Kitty, who runs to him and they embrace, confessing their love. They are joyfully received by Kitty's parents, the Princess and Prince Shcherbatsky, who give their blessing to the union.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

The entire chapter is the culmination of Levin's search for authentic love, culminating in a mutual, joyful proposal and acceptance, blessed by the family, contrasting social matchmaking with genuine emotional connection.

### Family and Domesticity

The Shcherbatsky family unit is central; the parents' emotional, immediate consent and blessing sanctify the union, portraying the ideal of family as the foundation for marital happiness.

## Character check-ins

### Konstantin Dmitrievitch Levin

In a euphoric, disembodied state from lack of sleep and food, he perceives the world with mystical joy while waiting to propose. His happiness is complete when Kitty accepts him.

### Kitty Shcherbatskaya

Has also been waiting anxiously for Levin. She runs to him, shyly and happily gives herself to him, and is the first to declare their mutual love.

### Princess Shcherbatskaya

Overcome with emotion, she cries and laughs, then kisses Levin and gives her joyful blessing to the marriage.

### Prince Shcherbatsky

Tries to appear unmoved but is visibly moved to tears. He expresses his long-held wish for the match and affectionately embraces both Kitty and Levin.

### Mademoiselle Linon

Beaming with knowledge of the impending event, she hastily exits the room to leave Levin and Kitty alone together.

## Key lines

> He felt utterly independent of his body; he moved without muscular effort, and felt as if he could do anything.

Levin felt a transcendent, euphoric strength, disconnected from physical limitations.

_Highlights his spiritual and emotional elevation in the moment of anticipated happiness._

> "I can’t believe you love me, dear!"

Levin expresses overwhelmed disbelief that his love is reciprocated.

_Shows his longstanding insecurity and the profound validation he receives._

> He embraced Kitty, kissed her face, her hand, her face again, and made the sign of the cross over her.

Prince Shcherbatsky showers Kitty with physical affection and a religious blessing.

_Demonstrates the deep paternal love and the sanctification of the marriage in their tradition._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-xv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anna_karenina_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters