# Chapter II explained — The Peasants

> Chapter companion for The Peasants by Władysław Reymont.

## What happens

Boryna, after losing his best cow, seeks advice from the Voyt and his wife about remarrying. They suggest several candidates, eventually proposing Yagna, daughter of Dominik. Boryna, though outwardly indifferent, is inwardly tempted and later walks past Yagna's house, observing her. He returns home, troubled by thoughts of marriage and his children's opposition, and struggles with indecision.

## Themes in this chapter

### Gender Roles and Family

Boryna's search for a wife is driven by household needs and land consolidation, reflecting patriarchal family structures.

### Poverty and Survival

The loss of a cow prompts Boryna to consider remarriage as a practical measure to avoid ruin.

### Community and Conflict

The Voyt and his wife mediate Boryna's marital prospects, showing community involvement in personal decisions.

## Character check-ins

### Maciej Boryna

Considers remarrying after losing his cow; walks past Yagna's house and wrestles with the decision.

### Yagna Borynova

Proposed as a suitable match for Boryna; observed by him while plucking a goose.

### Peter the Voyt

Advises Boryna on remarriage and suggests Yagna as a candidate.

### The Voytova

Participates in the discussion about potential brides for Boryna.

### Dominikova

Yagna's mother, mentioned as the old dame reading aloud in the cabin.

## Key lines

> better off with one than without.

It is better to have a wife than to be alone.

_The Voyt's wife argues that Boryna needs a wife for practical reasons._

> When old with young to wedlock fly, the devil is glad, for he profits thereby.

When an old man marries a young woman, it brings trouble and benefits the devil.

_The blind beggar comments cynically on the proposed marriage._

> Betwixt us rolls the flood, O grief! How can I send a kiss from here? I'll float it down upon a leaf And waft my love to thee, my dear.

A river separates us; I cannot send you a kiss directly, so I will send it on a leaf floating downstream.

_A song sung by an unknown voice near the pond, reflecting romantic longing._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_peasants_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_peasants_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_peasants_se/chapters