Resurrection · Chapter
Resurrection explained
Prince Nekhlúdoff awakens in Moscow, reflecting on his past and his present life.
What happens
Prince Nekhlúdoff awakens in Moscow, reflecting on his past and his present life. He recalls his seduction of Katúsha Máslova years ago and is tormented by guilt. He learns that Máslova is on trial for murder and decides to seek her out, hoping to atone for his sins. The chapter sets the stage for his moral awakening and his determination to intervene in her fate.
Themes in this chapter
Moral Awakening and Redemption
Nekhlúdoff's guilt over his past actions and his decision to seek out Máslova mark the beginning of his moral awakening and quest for redemption.
Social Class and Inequality
The power imbalance between Nekhlúdoff, a wealthy prince, and Máslova, a former serf, highlights the theme of social class and inequality.
Characters to notice
- Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhludoff
Awakens in Moscow, tormented by memories of seducing Katúsha, and resolves to seek her out after learning of her trial.
- Katerina Maslova
Mentioned as the woman Nekhlúdoff seduced years ago; she is now on trial for murder, prompting his guilt and quest for redemption.
Key passages
“He remembered how he had seduced her, and how, after that, he had left her without a word, without a thought of the consequences.”
Nekhlúdoff recalled the moment he seduced Katúsha and then abandoned her, never considering the impact of his actions.
This memory is the catalyst for Nekhlúdoff's guilt and his decision to seek redemption.
“He felt that he must see her, must do something to atone for his sin.”
Nekhlúdoff believed he had to meet her and take action to make amends for his wrongdoing.
This marks the beginning of Nekhlúdoff's moral journey and his commitment to helping Máslova.