Short Fiction · Chapter
XIII explained
A week after being advised to resign, Andrey Yefimitch travels with Mihail Averyanitch by carriage and train to Moscow.
What happens
A week after being advised to resign, Andrey Yefimitch travels with Mihail Averyanitch by carriage and train to Moscow. Mihail Averyanitch's incessant, boastful chatter and overbearing behavior irritate the doctor, who reflects on who is truly mad. In Moscow, Mihail Averyanitch prays fervently at the Iversky Madonna, visits the Kremlin and other sights, and dines at Tyestov's, all while displaying what Andrey Yefimitch considers vulgar, gentlemanly habits.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Moral Failure
Mihail Averyanitch's pious prayer and tears contrast with his vulgar, overbearing behavior, highlighting moral inconsistency.
Isolation and Loneliness
Andrey Yefimitch feels isolated and annoyed by Mihail Averyanitch's constant chatter, unable to think or concentrate.
Characters to notice
- Dr. Andrey Yefimitch Ragin
Travels with Mihail Averyanitch; feels vexed by his companion's behavior and reflects on madness.
- Mihail Averyanitch
Loud, boastful, and overbearing; prays fervently in Moscow and displays vulgar gentlemanly traits.
Key passages
“Which of us is the madman?”
Andrey Yefimitch wonders whether he or Mihail Averyanitch is truly insane.
Reflects the doctor's internal conflict and the theme of madness.
“Even though one does not believe it makes one somehow easier when one prays a little.”
Mihail Averyanitch says that praying provides comfort even for non-believers.
Highlights the superficiality of his religious observance.