# XXIII explained — On the Eve

> Chapter companion for On the Eve by Ivan Turgenev.

## What happens

Elena returns to Moscow and secretly visits Insarov in his lodgings, where they declare their love and plan to leave together for Bulgaria, despite the practical obstacles of money and a passport.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Elena and Insarov's secret meeting and their decision to risk everything for love and a shared cause.

### Patriotism and Revolution

Insarov's letters from Bulgaria and his urgent desire to join the struggle for Bulgarian independence.

### Individual vs. Society

Elena's defiance of social norms by secretly visiting Insarov and planning to elope without a proper passport.

## Character check-ins

### Elena Nikolaevna Stahova

Visits Insarov secretly, declares her love, and proposes they flee together to Bulgaria.

### Dmitri Nikanorovitch Insarov

Receives Elena in his room, reads letters from Bulgaria, and agrees to plan their joint departure.

### Anna Vassilyevna Stahova

Returns to Moscow early with the family, prompting Elena's move back to the city.

### Nikolai Artemyevitch Stahov

Mentions his 'cherished projects' and the inconvenience of staying at the villa.

### Pavel Yakovlitch Shubin

Returns to Moscow with Anna Vassilyevna.

### Andrei Petrovitch Bersenyev

Returns to Moscow a few days after the Stahovs.

## Key lines

> I am mistress here, you know, so you ought not to have any secrets from me.

Elena playfully asserts her authority over Insarov's space, demanding to know his secrets.

_Shows Elena's boldness and intimacy with Insarov._

> You will take me with you, yes?

Elena asks Insarov to bring her along to Bulgaria.

_Highlights her commitment and desire to share his mission._

> What would have become of us, if I hadn't come to you then!

Elena reflects on how their relationship would have failed if she had not taken the initiative to visit him.

_Emphasizes Elena's agency and the pivotal moment of their union._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/on_the_eve_se/chapters/xxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/on_the_eve_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/on_the_eve_se/chapters