On the Eve · Chapter
XVII explained
Insarov announces his intention to leave Kuntsovo for Moscow, prompting Bersenyev to inform Elena.
What happens
Insarov announces his intention to leave Kuntsovo for Moscow, prompting Bersenyev to inform Elena. Elena, realizing Insarov's love for her and his resolve to flee from personal attachment, begs him to delay his departure for a private meeting. The next day, Insarov fails to appear at the appointed hour, and Elena, distraught, decides to go to Bersenyev's lodging.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Insarov's decision to leave Kuntsovo to avoid personal love that might compromise his duty to Bulgaria exemplifies the sacrifice of personal happiness for a higher cause.
Fate and Idealism
Elena's intense emotional turmoil and her belief in a destined love clash with Insarov's idealistic commitment to his political mission, highlighting the conflict between fate and personal ideals.
Characters to notice
- Dmitri Nikanorovitch Insarov
Announces his sudden decision to leave Kuntsovo for Moscow, driven by his resolve to avoid personal love that might conflict with his duty to Bulgaria.
- Andrei Petrovitch Bersenyev
Informs Elena of Insarov's departure and reveals his suspicion that Insarov is in love with a Russian girl, acting as a go-between despite his own pain.
- Elena Nikolaevna Stahova
Desperately tries to arrange a private meeting with Insarov before his departure; spends a sleepless night in anguish and ultimately decides to go to Bersenyev's when Insarov does not appear.
- Pavel Yakovlitch Shubin
Visits the Stahovs and offers Elena a sorrowful, sympathetic look, refraining from his usual ridicule.
- Anna Vassilyevna Stahova
Present during Insarov's visit; comments on Elena's pallor and dress, unaware of the emotional turmoil.
Key passages
“I am a Bulgarian, and I have no need of a Russian love”
As a Bulgarian, I cannot allow myself to fall in love with a Russian woman.
Insarov's stated principle, as recalled by Bersenyev, that personal love would betray his national cause.
“Tell him, tell him — But here the poor girl broke down; tears rushed streaming from her eyes, and she ran out of the room.”
She tried to ask Bersenyev to tell Insarov something, but burst into tears and fled.
Elena's emotional breakdown upon realizing Insarov's love and impending departure.
“He is not coming; he is going away without saying goodbye.”
He has failed to appear; he intends to leave without a farewell.
Elena's despair when the clock strikes one and Insarov has not arrived for their planned meeting.