# XLVII explained — Resurrection

> Chapter companion for Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy.

## What happens

Nekhlúdoff visits the prison to have Máslova sign a petition for appeal. He observes the inspector's distress and the tense atmosphere among the prison staff. Máslova appears bold and cheerful, signs the petition, and Nekhlúdoff prepares to speak with her privately.

## Themes in this chapter

### Injustice of the Legal System

The chapter highlights the bureaucratic and emotional toll on prison staff and the precarious position of prisoners like Máslova, underscoring systemic flaws.

## Character check-ins

### Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhludoff

Arrives at the prison with the petition, observes the inspector's agitation, and guides Máslova through signing.

### Katerina Maslova

Brought to the office, she signs the petition with a bold and cheerful demeanor, though briefly frightened by the inspector.

### The Officer

The inspector, visibly distressed and weary, speaks of the heavy duties of his position and mentions a recent convict fight.

## Key lines

> Mine are heavy, heavy duties

The inspector laments the burden of his responsibilities.

_Reflects the moral weight and exhaustion of prison administration._

> I could at one time

Máslova indicates she used to know how to write.

_Shows her past education and current diminished circumstances._

## Links

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