# XLIII explained — Resurrection

> Chapter companion for Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy.

## What happens

Nekhlúdoff visits Máslova in prison, confesses his guilt, and asks for forgiveness. She initially does not recognize him, then recalls their past with bitterness. She asks for money, and Nekhlúdoff struggles with his conscience, ultimately resolving to continue his efforts to redeem himself.

## Themes in this chapter

### Moral Awakening and Redemption

Nekhlúdoff's confession and plea for forgiveness, his internal struggle, and his resolve to redeem his sin highlight his moral awakening.

### Sexual Exploitation and Women's Position

Máslova's past seduction by Nekhlúdoff and her subsequent fall into prostitution and prison illustrate the exploitation of women and their limited options.

## Character check-ins

### Katerina Maslova

Máslova is brought out to speak with Nekhlúdoff. She is initially confused, then bitter, and asks for money. She smiles in a luring, piteous manner, showing her depraved state.

### Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhludoff

Nekhlúdoff confesses his sin to Máslova, asks for forgiveness, and offers to help. He struggles with inner temptation but resolves to continue his moral awakening.

### The Officer

The inspector (officer) directs Nekhlúdoff to the women's ward and later arranges for Máslova to be brought out for a private conversation.

## Key lines

> I have come to ask you to forgive me

Nekhlúdoff tells Máslova that he has come to seek her forgiveness.

_This marks the beginning of Nekhlúdoff's attempt at redemption._

> Thank God! he died at once

Máslova says that their child died immediately after birth, expressing relief.

_Her bitter response shows her trauma and desire to forget the past._

> That's odd, what you are saying there

Máslova dismisses Nekhlúdoff's talk of forgiveness as strange and irrelevant.

_Her contemptuous smile reveals her hardened, cynical attitude._

## Links

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