# LIX explained — Resurrection

> Chapter companion for Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy.

## What happens

Nekhlúdoff visits Máslova in prison again, where she insists he leave her despite his continued offer of marriage. She refuses to go to the hospital and expresses her unworthiness. After the visit, Máslova returns to her cell and discusses the situation with fellow prisoners, reaffirming her decision not to marry him. The chapter includes a philosophical reflection on the complexity of human character, comparing men to rivers that change while remaining the same.

## Themes in this chapter

### Moral Awakening and Redemption

Nekhlúdoff's persistent offer of marriage and his determination to follow Máslova reflect his ongoing moral transformation, while Máslova's refusal shows her own struggle with self-worth and redemption.

### Love and Sacrifice

Nekhlúdoff's willingness to marry Máslova despite her past and his own social standing, and Máslova's selfless refusal to burden him, highlight themes of sacrificial love.

## Character check-ins

### Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhludoff

Visits Máslova again, reaffirms his offer of marriage, and plans to go to Petersburg to appeal the case.

### Katerina Maslova

Refuses Nekhlúdoff's marriage offer, insists he leave her, and discusses her decision with other prisoners.

### Korableva

Comments on Máslova's refusal to marry Nekhlúdoff, calling her a fool for not accepting wealth.

### Theodosia Birukoff

Shows kindness to Máslova, offering rolls and asking about her meeting.

### Menshoff

Mentioned by Máslova, who asks if Nekhlúdoff has seen him and asserts his innocence.

## Key lines

> Men are like rivers: the water is the same in each, and alike in all; but every river is narrow here, is more rapid there, here slower, there broader, now clear, now cold, now dull, now warm. It is the same with men.

Human beings are not fixed in character but change like rivers, with different qualities emerging at different times.

_This philosophical reflection underscores Nekhlúdoff's internal changes and the novel's theme of moral fluidity._

> I’d rather hang myself.

Máslova says she would prefer death to marrying Nekhlúdoff.

_This dramatic statement reveals her deep sense of unworthiness and resentment, despite her underlying affection._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/resurrection_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/resurrection_se/chapters