Summary : Anna Karénine - Tome I

The Oblonsky household is in a state of complete upheaval after the princess discovers that her husband Stépane Arcadiévitch Oblonsky, also known as Stiva, has been having an affair with their recently dismissed French governess. The betrayal has caused the princess to declare that she will no longer live under the same roof as him. This severe conflict has lasted for three days, creating an atmosphere of misery and isolation that affects both spouses, the other family members, and the domestic servants. The tension is so profound that the people living in the house feel less connected than random strangers sharing an inn. The household operates in total disarray as the wife remains locked in her rooms and the husband avoids returning home all day. The children wander through the rooms completely unattended, while the English governess quarrels with the housekeeper and writes to a friend to find her a new position. Meanwhile, the cook has left without permission during dinner hour, and both the kitchen maid and the coachman are asking for their accounts to leave. Everyone in the residence suffers from the ongoing crisis brought about by the marital breakdown. Three days after the initial confrontation, Prince Stépane Arcadiévitch wakes up at eight in the morning in his study on a leather sofa rather than his proper bedroom. He tries to prolong his sleep and briefly recalls a pleasant dream involving dining tables that sing and carafes shaped like women. When he reaches out for his usual morning comforts and his birthday slippers, reality abruptly returns to him. He remembers the devastating scene with his wife and the hopeless situation he created through his own actions. He vividly recalls the exact moment the affair was exposed when he returned home happily from the theater carrying a large pear for his wife. Instead of finding her in the drawing room, he discovered her in the bedroom holding the fatal note that revealed everything. Most distressingly, when confronted, his face involuntarily formed a foolish, good-natured smile instead of showing remorse, denial, or anger. Dolly reacted to this silly grin with physical anguish before launching into bitter reproaches and fleeing from him. Stiva is left in utter despair, burdened by the realization of his guilt and the frustrating memory of his foolish smile.

Stépane Arcadiévitch reflects calmly on his marital situation, feeling no true remorse for falling out of love with his wife, Daria Alexandrovna, whom he now views as faded and ordinary after years of raising their children. Instead, his only regret is that he failed to successfully conceal his infidelity, particularly his past flirtation with their former children's governess, Mlle Roland. Lacking any clear solution to the household crisis, he decides to adopt his usual philosophy of living for the moment and pushing difficult thoughts away until later. Rising from bed, he puts on his silk-lined robe and prepares for the day with the help of his long-time valet and friend, Matvei. As the barber shaves and styles his hair, Stépane receives a telegram bringing welcome news that his beloved sister, Anna Arcadievna, will be arriving the following day. Both master and servant recognize the potential significance of this visit, hoping that Anna might help mediate a reconciliation between the estranged husband and wife. Matvei handles various household pressures discreetly, including managing a creditor who has come by to see his master. Following the barber's departure, Matvei returns from delivering the telegram to Daria Alexandrovna with a cold response, noting that she plans to leave and stating that her husband may do as he pleases. Soon after, the children's nurse, Matrona Philémonovna, enters to urge Stépane to approach his wife once more and ask for forgiveness for the sake of the children and the disrupted household. Moved by her plea and suddenly blushing, Stépane agrees to make another attempt and quickly instructs Matvei to help him dress.

Stépane Arcadiévitch mène Levine dans un restaurant élégant de Moscou, où le premier affiche une joie de vivre communicative tandis que le second se sent mal à l'aise au milieu de ce décor luxueux qu'il juge superficiel. Alors qu'Oblonsky commande avec aisance des huîtres de Flensbourg et divers vins fins, Levine se morfond dans ses souvenirs de campagne et son aversion pour l'artificialité des citadins. Il confie à son ami sa vision rustique de la vie, opposant le travail manuel des champs aux manières oisives des citadins. Malgré leurs différences culturelles, la conversation dérive rapidement vers le sujet qui obsède Levine, à savoir son amour profond et tourmenté pour Kitty Cherbatzky. Levine interroge anxieusement Stépane Arcadiévitch sur ses chances d'obtenir la main de Kitty, redoutant un refus terrible et s'estimant indigne d'un être aussi pur en raison de son propre passé. Oblonsky se montre rassurant et encourageant, lui affirmant que les jeunes filles sont toujours flattées par une demande en mariage. Il lui révèle également que sa propre femme, douée d'une intuition remarquable en matière d'unions amoureuses, prédit que Kitty sera sa femme. Cette confidence bouleverse Levine de joie et dissipe une grande partie de ses craintes. Transfiguré par cet espoir, Levine peine à tenir en place et oublie momentanément tous ses autres tracas, y compris la présence de son frère Nicolas à Moscou. Il s'interroge avec angoisse sur le contraste entre son propre passé teinté de fautes et l'innocence immaculée de Kitty. Finalement, il trouve une forme de consolation dans une prière fervente, espérant que la miséricorde divine et l'indulgence de l'amour sauront effacer ses imperfections et lui permettre d'atteindre le bonheur.

During a shared meal, Stépane Arcadiévitch reveals to Levine that Count Wronsky has emerged as a rival for Kitty. This news deeply disturbs Levine, causing him to pale and lean against his chair in distress. Stépane attempts to reassure him, believing Levine still holds the best chances in the matter, though Levine regrets bringing up the conversation. The conversation then shifts to Stépane seeking advice regarding his own complicated romantic life and marital infidelities. Levine firmly rejects Stépane's moral justifications, comparing infidelity to petty theft and expressing a strong personal distaste for fallen women. In response, Stépane accuses Levine of being overly rigid and dismissing complex moral dilemmas too easily. He argues that life is full of nuances and that love is rarely straightforward. As the discussion continues, both friends realize that the conversation is pushing them apart rather than bringing them closer. Each becomes entirely absorbed in their own personal concerns and inner thoughts. Stépane settles the restaurant bill and quickly shifts his attention to a casual conversation with an acquaintance. Meanwhile, Levine pays his share without paying attention to the high cost and prepares to head out to see the Cherbatzky family.

Eighteen year old Kitty Cherbatzky enters high society for the first time this winter and immediately captures widespread attention. Two serious suitors soon emerge for her hand in marriage. The first suitor is Levine, whose frequent visits spark intense discussions between Kitty's parents. The prince strongly supports Levine, while the princess dislikes his awkward manners, unconventional lifestyle, and perceived arrogance. The princess strongly prefers the second suitor, Count Wronsky, who is wealthy, intelligent, and socially charming. The princess experiences deep anxiety while navigating modern matchmaking, contrasting current social freedoms with the rigid traditions of her own youth. Unlike past generations where parents arranged marriages directly, contemporary young people socialize freely and believe they should choose their own spouses. The princess worries constantly that Wronsky might flirt without any serious intentions of marriage. However, she finds temporary comfort when Kitty mentions that Wronsky is waiting for his mother to arrive before making any major moves. When Levine unexpectedly returns to town, the princess grows worried that Kitty might feel conflicted or hesitate to accept Wronsky. The princess attempts to discuss the situation with her daughter, urging honesty about her feelings. Kitty blushes, tears up, and begs her mother not to speak about the matter. Looking into her daughter's honest eyes, the mother smiles and realizes she has nothing to hide.

Kitty experienced intense anticipation and anxiety prior to the evening that would decide her fate. Looking back, she felt a tender affection for Constantin-Dmitrievitch Levine, whose love she never doubted and whose past connections with her family brought her comfort. In contrast, her relationship with Vronsky felt complicated and unsettling, even though he offered a brilliant and dazzling future. While her connection to Levine felt clear and simple, her future with him remained foggy and uncertain. After preparing in her room, Kitty descended to the salon and was startled by the early arrival of Constantin-Dmitrievitch Levine. Realizing that he had come specifically to see her alone and declare his feelings, a wave of panic and paleness washed over her. She recognized that she would soon have to inflict a cruel wound on a man she genuinely cared for simply because he was in love with her. Briefly, she considered fleeing to avoid the uncomfortable conversation, but she ultimately resolved to face him honestly and bravely. Levine approached her with a mixture of strength and shyness, quickly steering the conversation to the purpose of his early visit. After a brief and nervous exchange, he gathered his courage and asked her directly if she would become his wife. For a brief moment, Kitty felt a surge of happiness and was deeply moved by the realization of his love. However, she quickly remembered Vronsky, looked straight into Levine's hopeful eyes, and hastily rejected his proposal. Accepting her refusal with quiet dignity, Levine immediately prepared to leave.

The princess is relieved when Kitty apparently refuses Levine, but tension fills the air until Countess Nordstone arrives and immediately targets Levine with teasing remarks. Levine desperately wants to leave to escape his awkwardness, but the arrival of Count Wronsky compels him to stay and observe the situation. As Wronsky enters, Levine looks at Kitty and instantly realizes through her glowing expression that she is deeply in love with the newcomer. Levine stays out of a painful curiosity, closely examining Wronsky and acknowledging his natural charm, elegance, and easy manners. Wronsky greets everyone graciously, including Levine, and effortlessly takes command of the room's conversation while maintaining a calm and pleasant demeanor. The discussion soon shifts toward spiritualism and table-turning, prompting Levine to engage in a sharp intellectual debate with Wronsky about whether such phenomena can be considered a natural physical force. Although Levine argues strenuously that spiritualism lacks scientific consistency, Wronsky smoothly steers the company away from controversy and suggests beginning a table experiment. Overwhelmed by heartbreak and realizing that Kitty loves Wronsky, Levine tries to leave multiple times. Just as he attempts to slip away, the old prince enters and warmly greets him, momentarily trapping him in the room. Before Levine can finally escape, he notices Kitty exchanging a happy, smiling conversation with Wronsky about an upcoming ball, leaving him with a final, painful impression of their mutual affection.

That same evening Kitty told her mother about what had happened between her and Levine. Despite feeling a pang of sorrow for having caused him pain, she felt flattered by his proposal of marriage. Convinced that she had acted rightly, she lay awake for a long time as a particular memory haunted her. She recalled Levine standing near the old prince and casting a dark and desolate look upon her and Wronsky, which brought tears to her eyes. However, she quickly banished this thought by turning her mind to the man who had replaced him in her affections. She vividly pictured his handsome and firm face, his calm distinction, and his benevolent air. Reminding herself of the love he showed her, joy returned to her soul and she smiled at her own happiness as she rested her head on the pillow. Although a small inner voice argued against it, she tried to convince herself that it was sad but not her fault. Wondering whether she was to blame for either encouraging or refusing Levine, she knew her happiness was mixed with doubt and she prayed until she fell asleep. Meanwhile a fierce argument was taking place in the private study of the prince concerning their beloved daughter. The prince raised his arms in anger and accused his wife of lacking pride and dignity for trying to secure a husband for Kitty in such a base and low manner. The princess was deeply hurt and near tears because she had merely come to wish her husband a normal good night. She had not even mentioned Levine yet, but had only alluded to the prospective marriage with Wronsky, which she considered already settled. The prince shouted that she had attracted a suitor that the whole of Moscow would rightly talk about. He bitterly criticized her habit of arranging special viewings and gatherings to hunt down marriage candidates. He declared with absolute conviction that Levine was a thousand times better than the shallow Petersburg dandy who seemed manufactured on a machine. The prince argued that Wronsky was simply a little fop who wanted to amuse himself without any serious intentions of settling down. The princess defended herself by asking what she had done wrong and arguing that she had never made any improper advances. She insisted that Wronsky was young, handsome, and truly in love, and she pointed out that Kitty felt the same way about him. The prince scoffed at her judgment and warned her that she would eventually realize her mistake when it was far too late. He reminded her of past mistakes and expressed his deep fear that their little Catherine would have her life ruined by their foolish actions. The argument only came to an end when the princess was stopped short by the painful memory of poor Dolly. Wishing each other a good night, the married couple kissed and crossed themselves according to custom while holding firmly to their own opinions. Back in her own room, the princess found her earlier confidence shaken by the harsh words of her husband and she began to feel a deep terror regarding the unknown future. Overwhelmed by anxiety, she joined her daughter in praying repeatedly to the Lord for mercy and guidance.

Vronsky grew up without experiencing traditional family life. His mother was a brilliant society woman with a controversial personal history, and his father was absent throughout his childhood. Following his education at the page corps, Vronsky graduated successfully as an officer and immediately immersed himself in the elite military circles of Saint Petersburg. Although he occasionally participated in high society events, his romantic interests lay elsewhere until a visit to Moscow exposed him to a different way of living. In Moscow, Vronsky experienced for the first time the charm of a warm, familiar relationship with an amiable and naive young woman who clearly cared for him. This environment offered a stark and delightful contrast to the luxurious yet coarse lifestyle he was accustomed to in Saint Petersburg. He saw no complications in spending time with Kitty, regularly dancing with her at balls and visiting her family home. They spoke of trivial matters that anyone could hear, yet Vronsky felt these simple conversations gained a special meaning when directed at her, forging a bond that grew stronger each day. Despite growing closer to Kitty, Vronsky never considered marriage or viewed his actions as a potential seduction without commitment. To his bachelor perspective, married men belonged to a strange, hostile, and ultimately ridiculous category of people. He simply believed he had discovered a fresh source of pleasure, remaining entirely unaware that his behavior might cause Kitty unhappiness. Leaving the Shcherbatsky home one evening, he felt the mysterious connection between them had reached a point where he needed to make a decision, though he remained unsure of what that decision should be. Walking back, Vronsky reflected on the purity of the evening, feeling that their silent language of glances and tones made their mutual affection clear. He believed their interaction brought out the good in him and made him a better person. Rejecting plans to visit a club or a cabaret for drinks and entertainment, he decided that the best part of the evening was the positive feeling he took away from the Shcherbatsky household. He returned directly to his hotel room, where he quickly fell into a deep and peaceful sleep.

On a cold morning at the Saint Petersburg railway station, Wronsky goes to meet his mother’s arriving train. On the grand staircase, he unexpectedly encounters Stépane Arkadiévitch Oblonsky, who has come to meet his sister Anna Karenina. Wronsky greets him warmly, appreciating that spending time with Stépane offers a subtle connection to Kitty, with whom Wronsky has fallen under the spell. As they chat while waiting on the platform, Stépane teases Wronsky about being in love, noting his obvious happiness following the previous evening spent at the Cherbatzkys. Wronsky sidesteps the teasing and casually asks whom Stépane is meeting. Upon learning that Stépane is waiting for his sister Madame Karenina and her husband Aleksey Alexandrovitch, Wronsky dismisses the husband as a dull and overly conservative man outside his social circle. Their conversation then shifts back to the previous evening. Stépane mentions his friend Levine, explaining that Levine is a nervous man who might have proposed marriage to Kitty the night before. Hearing this news sparks a sense of competitive excitement and triumph within Wronsky, who believes Kitty could aspire to a much better match. He reflects briefly on the complications of romance compared to simpler affairs, but their discussion is interrupted as the heavy train finally rolls into the station. Amid the cloud of steam, the noise of the engine, and the bustle of passengers getting off the cars, Wronsky momentarily forgets his mother's arrival. Just as a conductor informs him that the Countess Wronsky is in a nearby carriage, Wronsky remains preoccupied with the emotional revelation regarding Kitty.

Wronsky arrives at the train station to meet his mother, Countess Vronsky. As he walks through the carriage, he encounters a graceful woman with grey eyes and a bright, charming expression. He soon learns from his mother that this passenger is Anna Arkadievna Karenina, who has been traveling with the countess and sharing stories about their respective sons. Shortly after, Anna's brother, Stepan Arkadievitch Oblonsky, arrives to meet her. Anna warmly embraces her brother, while Wronsky finds himself unable to take his eyes off her. During their brief parting conversation, the countess praises Anna to her son, while Wronsky exchanges polite remarks with Anna. She departs with a warm smile and a firm handshake that leaves a strong impression on Wronsky, who continues to watch her attentively as she rejoins her brother. As the group prepares to leave the station, panic breaks out following a tragic accident on the tracks. A railway worker has been struck and killed by a train, leaving behind a grieving widow and a large family. Deeply shaken by the grim scene, Anna and her brother discuss the horror of the event. Wronsky quietly leaves for a few moments to provide financial assistance to the destitute widow. As Anna leaves the station in a carriage with her brother, she is visibly trembling and fighting back tears, whispering that the gruesome death feels like an ominous omen. Oblonsky dismisses her fears and quickly shifts the conversation to personal matters, asking for her help with his own affairs.

Meeting in the salon, Dolly sits with her children while wrestling with the mixed emotions of awaiting a visit from her sister-in-law Anna. Although she had previously told her husband that Anna's arrival did not matter, Dolly secretly appreciates the presence of someone from outside her immediate circle of grief, despite fearing condescending Christian consolations. When Anna arrives, she immediately demonstrates genuine affection and a remarkable memory for the children's names and ages, quickly putting Dolly at ease and breaking down her initial coldness. Once left alone together, Anna gently shares that her brother, Stepan Arkadyevitch, has already spoken with her about the crisis. Rather than offering empty sympathy, Anna expresses deep, heartfelt pain for Dolly and takes her hand, prompting Dolly to recount the painful history of her marriage. Dolly explains how she entered the union in absolute innocence, entirely unaware of any possibility of infidelity, which made the discovery of her husband's affair with the children's former governess an unendurable and cruel shock that shattered her faith and left her filled with consuming hatred. Anna listens with profound empathy, acknowledging the immense suffering of her sister-in-law while offering insights into the minds of men like Stiva, suggesting that such infidelities do not diminish a wife's status as a sacred object in her husband's eyes. Though Dolly insists that she can never forgive or forget the humiliation and the loss of her youth, Anna gently guides her through the difficult questions of whether she still loves him. By the end of their conversation, comforted by Anna's genuine understanding and unwavering support, Dolly feels significantly less burdened and embraces her visitor with gratitude.

Anna spends the entire day at the Oblonsky house and declines all visitors who come to see her. She spends her morning with Dolly and her children and sends a note to her brother asking him to come home for dinner. Stépane Arcadiévitch returns for dinner and although his relationship with Dolly remains cold, they are no longer talking about a separation and a reconciliation seems possible. Kitty arrives after dinner and quickly falls under the charm of Anna, who strikes her as possessing the beauty and grace of a young girl combined with a serious and mature gaze. After dinner, Anna encourages her brother to go talk to Dolly and help mend their marriage. While Stiva is with his wife, Anna sits on a sofa surrounded by the children who affectionately crowd around her. She talks with Kitty about an upcoming ball and reflects on the innocent and happy nature of youth with a touch of melancholy. The conversation shifts to Vronsky, and Anna mentions that she met his mother on the train and later saw Vronsky himself at the station. Kitty blushes at the mention of Vronsky and asks what Anna was told about him. Anna praises him as a noble and heroic figure based on what the countess shared. The children soon return from tea, and Anna playfully gathers them into her arms on the divan while Stiva continues his conversation with Dolly.

Dolly steps out of her bedroom during tea time while Stépane Arcadiévitch emerges from another door. Anna watches closely, hoping to read the emotional climate of the household and determine whether Dolly and her husband have successfully mended their relationship. Stépane Arcadiévitch enters the salon, and his cheerful voice immediately reassures both Anna and Kitty that a reconciliation has indeed taken place. Dolly discusses moving Anna to a more comfortable room on the same floor, though she humorously doubts her husband is capable of arranging the window curtains properly without causing a complete mess. Stépane Arcadiévitch responds with a lighthearted smile, and Dolly maintains a gently teasing tone toward him throughout the evening while he remains visibly happy and relieved. Around half past nine, an animated conversation unfolds around the tea table among the gathered company. Anna mentions an acquaintance from Petersburg and decides to go upstairs to retrieve her photograph album, which also contains a picture of her beloved young son Serge. The mention of her child stirs a strong wave of maternal longing and sadness within her, making her wish she could see his face or speak to him. She leaves the room with her usual light and determined step to fetch the book. As Anna walks toward the staircase, a sudden doorbell rings in the antechamber. Speculation arises among the group as to who might be visiting at such a late hour, with Stépane Arcadiévitch guessing the visitor might be bringing work documents for him. Looking down from the staircase railing, Anna is startled to recognize Wronsky standing in the vestibule. Her heart reacts with a sudden mixture of joy and apprehension as she sees him searching through his pockets under the hall lamp. Wronsky looks up and catches sight of Anna on the stairs, his face instantly taking on a humble and confused expression. She acknowledges him with a slight nod just as Stépane Arcadiévitch loudly urges him to come in. By the time Anna returns downstairs with her album, Wronsky has already left. Stépane Arcadiévitch explains to the company that the visitor merely stopped by to check the schedule for a dinner happening the following day. Meanwhile, Kitty blushes privately, suspecting that Wronsky came looking for her but left without entering because of the late hour and Anna presence. The unexpected visit leaves everyone feeling somewhat surprised and unsettled.

Kitty and her mother arrive at the brightly lit, flower adorned ballroom where the sounds of the orchestra are already tuning for the first waltz. Various acquaintances admire Kitty as she enters in her pink tulle dress adorned with lace and a narrow black velvet ribbon around her neck. She feels entirely comfortable, charming, and happy with her appearance. Almost immediately upon entering, she is invited to dance by the famous cotillion director Georges Korsunsky. While gliding smoothly across the floor, Kitty observes the elite group gathered in the corner of the room, where she spots Stiva and then catches sight of Anna. Korsunsky guides Kitty toward Anna and Madame Karénine is revealed wearing a simple black velvet dress with Venetian guipure, a garland of forget me nots in her hair, and a fine string of pearls around her neck. Kitty is struck anew by Anna's natural elegance and charm, realizing that Anna's attire merely serves as a framework for her beauty. Anna greets Kitty affectionately and soon joins Korsunsky for a waltz, deliberately bypassing a bow from Wronsky. Wronsky then approaches Kitty to claim their promised dance, expressing regret for not having seen her recently. Kitty watches Anna dance and waits for Wronsky to ask her to waltz as well. When he hesitates before finally inviting her, they manage only a few steps before the music stops. Looking up into his face, Kitty feels a profound sense of love and expectation that would haunt her memory for many years afterward with a sharp feeling of shame when he fails to fully respond. Korsunsky quickly calls out for the waltz to resume, grabbing a partner and starting the dance over again across the room.

The evening unfolds at a glittering ball where Kitty experiences a whirlwind of joy, certain that the upcoming cotillion will cement her bond with Wronsky. Having refused multiple other invitations in absolute confidence, she dances through the earlier numbers in a dream of happiness. However, her hopes are shattered when she notices a sudden, undeniable chemistry sparking between Wronsky and Anna. Watching them from across the room, Kitty observes the way Wronsky looks at Anna with an expression of humble and passionate devotion, mirroring the radiant, intoxicated joy shining on Anna's face. Struck by a profound sense of doom and realizing that Wronsky has not invited her for the cotillion, Kitty suffers a wave of despair and flees to a private boudoir. The countess Nordstone soon finds her and confirms her worst suspicions by revealing that Wronsky has asked Anna to dance instead. Forced back into the ballroom by social duty, Kitty is subjected to the continuous torture of watching the pair move together with an exclusive, magnetic closeness. Despite the festive atmosphere, Anna's charm takes on a cruel and terrifying quality in Kitty's eyes, crushing her spirit and leaving her utterly devastated. As the evening progresses toward supper, the tension culminates when Anna announces her imminent departure for Petersburg the following day. Wronsky questions her with an intensity that reveals how deeply he is captivated by her, and his heart burns as she answers. Refusing to stay for supper, Anna takes her leave, while Kitty is left behind to grapple with the painful reality of a ruined evening and a broken heart.

Levine walks away from the Cherbatzky home feeling deeply unworthy and tormented by self-doubt, believing he holds no appeal for others. Dwelling on his perceived failures, his thoughts shift to his troubled brother Nikolay. Reflecting on Nikolay's history of erratic behavior, university troubles, legal disputes, and destructive lifestyle choices, Levine feels a strong sense of empathy rather than disgust. Unlike others who abandoned Nikolay, Levine remembers that they share similar emotional vulnerabilities and resolves to find him for an honest conversation. Finding the address for his brother's hotel, Levine travels across town while recalling specific past scandals involving Nikolay. Upon reaching the modest room filled with cheap tobacco smoke, Levine hears his brother conversing with a coarse young man named Kritzki and a disheveled woman named Maria Nikolaevna. The bleak surroundings cause Levine's heart to sink, realizing the desperate circumstances of Nikolay's daily life. When Nikolay finally notices Constantin standing in the doorway, his initial reaction shifts instantly between intense anger and sudden joy. Nikolay greets him with wild, erratic movements and immediately introduces his companion, Maria Nikolaevna, demanding that his brother respect her. Although initially put off by Nikolay's defensive hostility and bizarre mannerisms, Levine remains patient, hoping to bridge the emotional distance between them.

Constantin visits his ailing brother Nicolas in a modest room, where Nicolas attempts to explain his new professional artel project designed to liberate peasants from the grip of capitalist exploitation. Constantin observes his brother's sickly appearance and growing frailty, feeling deep pity while remaining skeptical about the practicality of the cooperative scheme. Nicolas quickly becomes irritable, suspecting Constantin of harboring aristocratic prejudices and launching into angry complaints about their other brother Serge and his published writings. As the conversation grows tense, Kritzki prepares to leave, and Constantin uses the moment to speak privately with Maria-Nicolaevna. She reveals that Nicolas's health has deteriorated significantly and that he has developed a destructive habit of drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. When Nicolas returns to the room, he notices them whispering and reacts with a flash of anger before quickly shifting back to a warmer, more welcoming mood. He begins consuming more liquor with frantic eagerness and questions Constantin about his life in the countryside and why he has not yet married. Nicolas reminisces nostalgically about their family estate, the old birch trees, and their shared past, expressing a bitter regret that his own life has been ruined by past financial grievances. Constantin tries to navigate the delicate emotional terrain, refusing to take sides in the ongoing family feud and offering genuine personal affection to his troubled brother. Moved by this unexpected compassion, Nicolas softens momentarily but soon lapses into erratic behavior, criticizing modern social institutions and expressing a deep, terrifying dread of death. Exhausted by the emotional turbulence, Constantin and Maria-Nicolaevna finally manage to calm him down, get him to bed, and agree to stay in touch regarding his worsening condition.

Levine left Moscow the following morning and returned to his estate by the evening. Throughout the train journey, he engaged in conversations about politics and railways with his fellow passengers, yet he felt weighed down by a chaotic mix of conflicting opinions and an unexplained sense of self-dissatisfaction and shame. However, the moment he arrived and caught sight of his one-eyed coachman Ignace, the familiar sleigh, and the joyful greeting of his dog Laska, his internal chaos began to lift. Stepping into the warm familiarity of his home, he felt an overwhelming sense of relief and resolved to leave behind his former discontent. He vowed to be a better person, abandon unrealistic expectations of extraordinary happiness, and live more modestly while resisting bad passions. As he settled into his study, surrounded by familiar objects like books, hunting horns, and his old desk, a wave of doubt washed over him regarding whether he could truly change his life. The physical objects seemed to whisper that he would remain as he had always been, caught between endless self-criticism and unfulfilled aspirations. A competing voice within his soul insisted that he did not need to be a slave to his past. He briefly picked up heavy iron weights in the corner to test his strength before being interrupted by his steward, who reported that some buckwheat had burned down in the new dryer. Although this news irritated him, his annoyance quickly vanished when he learned that his prize cow Pava had successfully given birth. Levine walked through the snowy yard to the warm, straw-filled stable to inspect the newborn calf. He examined the long-legged, red-and-white animal and shared a moment of pride with his steward, momentarily forgetting the accident with the buckwheat. Immersed once again in the familiar details of managing his extensive estate, he left the stable to speak with the contractor and his steward in the office before returning to the main house.

Levine sits alone in his large, ancient ancestral home, which he insists on keeping fully heated despite living by himself. This house represents his entire world, echoing the sacred memories of his parents and their ideal life, which he deeply desires to recreate with a family of his own. For him, love cannot exist outside marriage, and he views marriage not merely as a social formality, but as the supreme act of existence upon which all his happiness depends. Even though recent events in Moscow have made him feel as though he must renounce these cherished dreams, he finds himself unable to abandon them entirely. While sipping tea in his small sitting room, Agathe Mikhailovna chatters beside him about local gossip, including Prokhor squandering his money on drink and abusing his wife. Levine listens while simultaneously reading a book on heat by Tyndall, letting his mind wander between scientific theories and optimistic plans for his estate. He imagines a future of breeding cattle, picturing a time when he and his wife will proudly show off their red and white heifers to visiting guests. Despite the lingering sting of his past rejections, he resolves not to let himself be dominated by history and determines to fight for a much better life. His faithful dog Laska returns from the courtyard, bringing in the crisp scent of fresh air and pressing her head affectionately against his hand. Agathe Mikhailovna observes him closely and remarks that he seems sad, noting that she has grown up with the masters and knows their moods well. Comforted by the loyal dog and the old servant's quiet intuition, Levine caresses Laska as she curls up at his feet in blissful repose. Watching the dog settle down, Levine feels a renewed sense of hope and decides that he will do the same, believing that everything in his life can still be put right.

Anna Arcadievna sends a telegram to her husband the day after the ball, announcing that she is leaving Moscow immediately instead of the following day. She tells her sister-in-law Dolly that she must return home because of pressing matters, though Dolly senses that Anna feels a general sense of inner restlessness and discontent with herself. Kitty avoids visiting and sends a short note blaming a migraine, while Dolly and Anna share a quiet dinner with the children. Later, while preparing for her journey in her bedroom, Anna becomes emotional, fights back tears, and talks with Dolly about her feelings and her desire to leave. During their conversation, Anna confesses the real reason behind her sudden departure. She reveals that Kitty is jealous of her because of the recent ball, where Anna danced the cotillon with Wronsky, turning what should have been a joyful event for Kitty into a painful experience. Anna insists that she is not to blame, though she feels uneasy about the situation and admits that memories of Wronsky are partly driving her away early to avoid further encounters. Dolly listens attentively, sympathising with Anna while also noting her human vulnerabilities and emotional contradictions. Before departure, Stépane Arcadiévitch arrives home looking animated and smelling of wine and cigars to see his sister off. Dolly, deeply moved by their parting, embraces Anna and promises that she will always love her as a dear friend and remember everything she has done. Anna fights back her tears, expresses her affection in return, and bids farewell to Dolly as she departs from Moscow.

Anna sat in the dimly lit train compartment with her maid Annouchka, feeling relieved that her visit was over and looking forward to returning home to her son Serge and her husband Alexis Alexandrovitch the next day. To occupy her restless energy, she busied herself arranging her travel items, pulling out a pillow and wrapping her feet in a warm blanket. Several other women shared the compartment, including a sick lady and a talkative older woman complaining about the heating, but Anna found their conversation uninteresting. Instead, she retrieved her small travel lantern, hung it on her chair, and took out an English novel and a paper knife to pass the time while the snow beat against the windows outside. At first, reading was difficult because of the constant motion and noise of the train, but eventually she settled into the book and understood the story. However, focusing on the lives of fictional characters soon became intolerable as she felt a strong desire to live her own life and experience adventures like the heroine. She imagined walking softly in a sickroom, delivering a speech in Parliament, or riding a horse with daring boldness. As she sat quietly twisting her paper knife, she thought about the happy memories of her time in Moscow and her interactions with Wronsky, yet an inexplicable feeling of shame began to grow within her. She wondered why she should feel ashamed or afraid of these memories, questioning whether there could be anything between herself and the officer beyond ordinary acquaintanceship. Her nerves grew increasingly tense as she struggled to read or make sense of her surroundings, feeling as though sounds and images were taking on an exaggerated importance in the semi-darkness. She questioned whether the train was moving forward or backward, whether Annouchka was truly beside her, and whether objects hanging on hooks were coats or animals. Fighting off a growing sense of panic and disorientation, she stood up, removed her heavy wrap and fur collar, and felt momentarily better when a peasant conductor entered to check the thermometer. The rush of wind and snow accompanied his entrance, blurring her senses as she heard strange noises and saw flashes of red light. When the train finally stopped at a station and the conductor announced the name, Anna decided to step outside for fresh air, fighting her way through the howling winter wind and snow on the platform to breathe deeply and regain her composure.

The violent winter storm rages around the train station as passengers and porters hurry through the snow and biting wind. Anna steps out onto the platform for fresh air, watching the bustling scene of moving shadows and flickering station lamps. Amidst the swirling weather, a military coat approaches her, and she immediately recognizes Wronsky. Though she attempts to keep her distance and reminds herself that he is merely an ordinary acquaintance, a proud and undeniable joy fills her at his presence. Wronsky addresses her respectfully, confessing without hesitation that he traveled to Saint Petersburg solely to be near her. Despite her rational mind warning her that his words are improper, her heart welcomes the confession and a deep sense of connection is forged between them. She attempts to reprimand him and retreats quickly into her railway carriage, but the brief conversation leaves her both terrified and exhilarated. Unable to sleep due to the overwhelming nervous tension and joyful confusion building inside her mind, she spends the rest of the journey caught up in powerful reveries. As morning breaks and the train pulls into Saint Petersburg, reality immediately returns with the thought of her home, her son, and her husband. Stepping off the platform, Anna is struck by her husband Alexis Alexandrovitch waiting for her with tired eyes and an ironic smile. Seeing him brings an instant and unpleasant shift in her feelings, causing her to notice unsettling details about his appearance and driving a sudden wedge of hypocrisy into her thoughts. When he greets her with a slow, teasing remark about being a devoted husband, she immediately asks after their son Serge, showing how distant her heart has become.

Count Vronsky spent the entire night awake in his railway carriage, looking around with complete indifference and ignoring the attempts of a nervous young man to engage him. He felt elevated by the immense power of his love for Anna Arkadievna, experiencing a proud and energized focus toward a single goal. When he had briefly seen Anna at the Bologoi station, he had impulsively expressed his feelings, leaving them both conscious that she now knew everything. Arriving in St Petersburg, Vronsky felt remarkably fresh and hoped to catch another glimpse of her walk, face, or smile upon leaving the train. Instead, the first person he saw was her husband, Alexei Alexandrovitch Karenin, politely escorted through the crowd by the station master. This reality hit Vronsky with the unpleasant realization that the husband was an essential part of Anna's existence, a fact he had previously refused to acknowledge. Watching Karenin's stiff posture and self-assured demeanor evoked in Vronsky the disgruntled feeling of a thirsty man finding a pure spring defiled by an animal. Yet, when Anna appeared, her familiar presence instantly revived him, and he perceived a subtle constraint in how she greeted her husband, convincing him that she did not and could not love Karenin. As Vronsky approached them, he greeted both husband and wife to allow Karenin his rightful place. Anna looked tired, but a sudden flash in her eyes upon seeing Vronsky confirmed his hopes. Alexei Alexandrovitch responded with icy indifference, formally acknowledging Vronsky and noting his travel companions before turning the conversation exclusively to his wife with sarcastic remarks meant to signal his desire for privacy. Vronsky stepped back but managed to ask for the honor of calling upon them, to which Karenin coldly replied that they received guests on Mondays. As Karenin escorted Anna toward their carriage, he bantered about his affection and her return a day early, mentioning that Countess Lydie Ivanovna was eager to see her. Anna listened half-heartedly while still attuned to Vronsky's footsteps behind them, pushing away her doubts with the thought of what it mattered. Karenin continued talking about their son Seryozha and the plans for the day before warmly pressing her hand and seeing her off to her carriage.

Anna returns home to find her son Serge running down the stairs to greet her with joyful shouts of mother. Though she initially feels a slight sense of disillusionment compared to the idealized image she held in her mind, she finds physical and moral comfort in his tender presence and affectionate embraces. She shares small gifts sent by the children of Dolly and talks about a clever little girl named Tania in Moscow who already knows how to read. Serge asks if he is less nice than Tania, and Anna reassures him that nothing in the world is better than him, which makes the child smile. Scarcely has Anna finished her lunch when Countess Lydie Ivanovna is announced. The countess is a tall and sickly woman with striking dark eyes whom Anna usually likes, though today certain flaws stand out to her for the first time. The countess immediately begins complaining about how exhausted she feels from fighting for truth and describes how men have taken over a philanthropic and religious institution run by their small circle of sisters, distorting and discrediting the original vision. After recounting details from a letter written by Pravdine and speaking at length about the struggles surrounding the Union of Churches, the countess hurries off to attend a meeting of the Slavic committee. Left alone, Anna reflects critically on the countess for the first time, wondering why she never noticed before how a supposedly charitable Christian woman spends her time fighting with others who share the exact same goals. Another visitor arrives soon after in the form of a high ranking official wife bringing local town news, while Alexis Alexandrovitch remains busy at his ministry. Left alone again, Anna spends the time before dinner observing her son eating his meal and organizing her backlog of correspondence and personal affairs. The intense emotional turmoil and shame she suffered during her journey home begin to fade away as she settles back into the normal routine of her daily life, leaving her feeling calm and virtually irreproachable. Reflecting on her previous state of mind, Anna wonders why she made such a fuss over nothing, convincing herself that Wronsky simply uttered nonsense that can easily be ignored without consequence. She decides against mentioning the incident to Alexis Alexandrovitch to avoid giving it unneeded importance, recalling a past situation where her husband expressed absolute trust in her tact and dismissed minor social declarations as things any woman in society must occasionally expect. Concluding that silence is the best path forward, she reassures herself that she has nothing serious to confess to God or her husband.

Alexis Alexandrovitch returns home busy with work and hosts dinner guests according to his strict daily routine. After the guests depart, Anna deals with an issue regarding her dresses and subsequently spends a peaceful evening putting her son to bed. She waits by the fireplace reading an English novel and reflects on the previous train scene as a minor worldly incident. Upon his return from work meetings, Alexis Alexandrovitch joins his wife and inquires about her trip to Moscow. Anna recounts the details of her journey, including the railway accident and her interactions with her brother Stépane Arcadiévitch and Dolly. Alexis Alexandrovitch expresses strict disapproval of her brother while inquiring about the reception of his own new council measure. Later in the evening, Anna accompanies her husband to the door of his study as he prepares to read his nightly book. She reflects affectionately on his character and habits despite his physical quirks. As midnight approaches, Anna writes a letter to Dolly while her husband prepares for bed, though a sudden memory of Wronsky briefly crosses her mind and dampens her spirits.

Upon returning to Saint Petersburg, Wronsky goes to the apartment on the Morskaïa that he previously lent to his close friend, Lieutenant Petritzky. Finding the rooms already lively, he walks in to discover Baroness Shilton making coffee while Petritzky and Captain Kamerowsky keep her company. The baroness chatters away in her usual Parisian jargon, playfully teasing the men, complaining about her husband refusing to grant a divorce, and asking Wronsky for advice on her financial disputes. Wronsky easily slips back into his old social habits, amused by the lighthearted chatter and banter. After the baroness and Kamerowsky leave, Petritzky catches Wronsky up on his chaotic personal life while Wronsky gets ready. Petritzky details his overwhelming financial troubles, including angry tailors, an unforgiving colonel, and his complicated relationships. Wronsky listens and responds with the familiar, carefree attitude of his old Petersburg circle. He even shares a hearty laugh upon hearing an absurd story about their fellow officer Bousoulkof accidentally carrying pounds of sweets hidden inside his ceremonial helmet during a royal inspection. Refreshed by the familiar atmosphere and gossip of his old life, Wronsky finishes dressing in his uniform and leaves the apartment. He heads out to visit the Place, his brother, and Princess Betsy, planning a full round of visits. His goal is to reestablish his presence in high society and navigate the specific social circles frequented by Karenina.

Towards the end of winter, the health of Kitty causes deep concern for the Cherbatzky family as her condition deteriorates with the approaching spring. After various remedies prescribed by the family doctor prove ineffective, the family decides to consult a celebrated young medical specialist. This fashionable doctor insists on a thorough and intrusive examination, dismissing traditional modesty as an outdated remnant of barbarism. Though deeply confused and humiliated by the process, Kitty submits to the examination while the old prince watches with skeptical irritation, convinced that the medical profession cannot cure his daughter's true underlying ailment. Following the examination, the celebrity doctor confers with the family physician. They discuss the vague possibility of a tubercular development alongside her clear symptoms of poor nutrition and intense nervousness. The famous doctor dismisses the idea of a foreign journey at first, prioritizing a strict regimen of diet and tonics, but eventually concedes that a trip might be acceptable if the family avoids foreign charlatans and strictly follows his harmless prescriptions. The family doctor listens respectfully throughout the discussion, noting that a moral cause lies hidden beneath the surface of Kitty illness. When the consultation concludes, the doctor asks to see the patient once more. Kitty stands in her room, emaciated and feverish, feeling that all these medical treatments are completely futile. To her, trying to heal her condition with pills and powders is like attempting to piece together the fragments of a broken vase. When the doctor begins repeating his tedious questions, Kitty loses her patience and abruptly cuts him short before leaving the room, prompting the doctor to diagnose her behavior as mere morbid irritability. After the doctor finally departs, a sense of relief washes over the household. The mother returns to her daughter feeling much more optimistic, and Kitty adopts a calm and cheerful demeanor to comfort her. Seeking to reassure her mother and prove her willingness to cooperate, Kitty cheerfully brings up the subject of packing and preparations for their upcoming journey.

Toward the end of winter, the Cherbatzky family grows increasingly concerned about the declining health of Kitty. Failing to see any improvement from previous remedies prescribed by their family physician, they decide to consult a young and fashionable medical celebrity. The famous doctor insists on a thorough physical examination of the young girl, displaying an indifferent attitude toward her modesty while the older prince looks on with skepticism, viewing the medical proceedings as an elaborate and irritating comedy. After conducting the examination, the celebrity doctor confers with the family doctor about a potential beginning of a tubercular condition, though he notes it is difficult to confirm without more advanced symptoms. They discuss possible treatments, including a water cure at Soden, while also briefly debating the merits of a trip abroad. The family doctor advocates for travel to help Kitty escape distressing memories, while the celebrity remains doubtful about its medical value but eventually consents as long as his own specific regimen is strictly followed. When the celebrity doctor requests a brief final follow-up with Kitty, the young girl becomes overwhelmed and frustrated by the repetitive questions. Feeling that her underlying emotional pain cannot be cured by pills or powders, she respectfully cuts the interview short and leaves the room. The doctor dismisses her reaction as mere sickly irritability and reassures her mother before departing. Once the doctor leaves, the household feels a profound sense of relief. Kitty, often hiding her true feelings now, puts on a cheerful expression to comfort her mother. She assures her that she feels well enough and suggests they proceed with preparations for the journey abroad, trying to show enthusiasm for her mother sake.

Dolly visits her parents despite her own recent childbirth and a sick child at home, eager to learn about the medical consultation regarding Kitty. She finds the household distressed and sighs at the prospect of losing her sister to a trip, while reflecting on her own unhappy marriage. Dolly remains trapped in a humiliating situation with Stépane Arcadiévitch, choosing to tolerate his suspected infidelity because she fears the pain of jealousy and wishes to preserve a semblance of family life. Meanwhile, the family discusses travel plans, and the old prince enters to chat affectionately with his youngest daughter Kitty. Kitty feels that her father is the only one who truly understands her, but his gentle words about her health and future pierce her deeply. Believing that he sees right through her soul and recognizes her hidden humiliations, she bursts into tears and flees the room. The princess immediately blames her husband for upsetting Kitty with his tactless remarks, leading to a heated argument between the parents. The old prince soon turns the blame back onto the princess, arguing that her own eagerness to welcome suitors into their home caused the current misery, though they quickly reconcile and soothe one another. Dolly attempts to mediate the tense atmosphere and mentions to her mother that Levin had previously intended to propose to Kitty through Stiva. The princess reacts defensively, confused and overwhelmed by her daughters keeping secrets from her. Recognizing Kitty's profound distress, Dolly decides to leave the adults and go upstairs to comfort her sister in her bedroom.

Dolly visits her sister Kitty in her pink boudoir to comfort her about her emotional distress, but her well-meaning attempts are immediately met with hostility and defensiveness. Kitty refuses to admit she is unhappy, insisting she has no grief, yet she soon breaks down and lashes out at Dolly for offering hypocritical pity. When Daria Alexandrovna gently brings up Levine and asks if he spoke to her, Kitty flies into a rage, flinging away her belt buckle and cruelly throwing Dolly's marital reconciliation in her face. Stung by her sister's harshness, Dolly sits in silent humiliation while Kitty hides her face and weeps. Overwhelmed by remorse, Kitty drops to her knees, wraps her arms around Dolly, and begs for forgiveness through her tears. The two sisters find a fragile reconciliation, though neither dares to revisit the painful subjects of Levine or Wronsky. Instead, Kitty opens up about a deeper spiritual malaise, explaining that everything around her now feels vile, repulsive, and coarse. She confesses that her parents' desire to see her married makes her feel as though she is being marketed off, and the young men in society now strike her as intolerable judges measuring her worth. Even simple social pleasures and clothes fill her with discomfort and a sense of impropriety. Kitty shares that she feels contaminated by ugly thoughts and that the only place she feels any peace is with Dolly and her children. Expressing a desperate wish to escape her current environment, Kitty insists on visiting her sister's home despite the danger of contagion. She successfully persuades her mother and moves in to help nurse Dolly's children through a bout of scarlet fever. Although the children recover safely, Kitty's own physical and mental health continues to deteriorate without improvement. Consequently, the Shcherbatskys leave Moscow during Lent to travel abroad in search of recovery.

La haute societe de Petersbourg se divise en trois cercles principaux que frequente Anna Arcadievna Karenine. Le premier cercle est le milieu officiel de son mari Alexis Alexandrovitch, compose de fonctionnaires et de subordonnés que la jeune femme finit par connaitre parfaitement tout en essayant de l eviter. Le second cercle est celui de la comtesse Lydie Ivanovna, constitue de personnes agees, devotes et ambitieuses que Karenine apprecie mais qui devient insupportable a Anna apres son retour de Moscou. Le troisieme cercle represente le grand monde des bals et des diners elegants, mene par la princesse Betsy Tverskoi. Attiree par ce milieu fastueux, Anna delaisse ses anciens amis pour y frequenter la haute societe. Dans ce monde brillant, Anna eprouve la joie troublante de croiser Wronsky qui cherche a la voir partout. Bien qu elle croie d abord resister a cette poursuite, elle comprend toute l intensite de ses sentiments le soir ou elle le cherche en vain a l Opera. Lorsqu il apparait enfin dans la loge de sa cousine Betsy, la conversation revele l ampleur de leur passion grandissante et l insistance de Wronsky. Betsy observe avec amusement et indulgence les progres de cette cour assidue envers une femme mariee. Wronsky se rejouit de son role romanesque et quitte bientot l Opera pour se rendre au Theatre francais sous pretexte d une autre obligation.

Vronsky entertains his cousin Betsy and another lady in a theatre box by recounting a humorous yet delicate scandal involving two intoxicated officers from his regiment, Pétritzky and young Prince Kédrof. He explains how the young men had playfully chased a stranger in a cab, mistakenly delivered an ardent love letter to her apartment door, and were subsequently ejected by an outraged civil servant named Wenden, whose pregnant wife had been deeply startled by the incident. Wenden formally complained to the regimental colonel, demanding severe punishment and threatening further action if justice was not served. Recognizing the futility of a duel and wanting to protect the regiment's reputation, Wronsky took it upon himself to act as a reluctant diplomat. He mediated between the offended titular councillor and the unapologetic officers, navigating shifting moods of anger and apology. Although Wronsky deployed his best social skills and charm to appease Wenden, the reconciliation remained precarious and frustratingly difficult to finalize. Later at the French theatre, Wronsky updates his colonel on the delicate mission and the mixed success of his negotiations. While the colonel acknowledges that Pétritzky's continuous mischief has made him a liability, he ultimately decides to let the matter drop rather than escalate it further. The two men then turn their attention away from the messy affair to admire the performance of a French actress on stage.

Princess Betsy returns from the theatre to her grand palace on Bolshaya Morskaya, quickly freshening up before welcoming her evening guests into the luxurious, dark-walled salon. As footmen serve tea from a silver samovar, the assembled high-society crowd divides into two groups. The conversation starts off casually, touching on recent theatrical performances and the popular Italian opera, but soon drifts toward harmless gossip and light critique regarding various acquaintances, including a scandalous upcoming pink-devil costume. The princess's husband, a passionate collector of engravings, makes a brief appearance and shares light banter with the outspoken Princess Miagkaia, who humorously recounts an extravagant and pretentious dinner hosted by wealthy bankers. Following this brief diversion, the conversation shifts to focus directly on Karenin and his wife Anna, whose recent return from Moscow has caused a stir. Various guests discuss Anna's noticeable change in demeanor and the constant presence of Alexey Vronsky shadowing her movements. Princess Miagkaia defends Anna warmly while openly criticizing her husband, Alexey Alexandrovich, whom she dismisses as foolish despite his political reputation. Other guests debate whether it is fair to judge Anna when admirers constantly pursue her. The debate concludes as the group gathers more closely around the tea table to discuss international politics concerning the King of Prussia. The arrival of Vronsky interrupts the political discussion. He enters the salon with complete ease, greeting his cousin Princess Betsy and the other guests as though he had only just parted from them. When asked about his evening, Vronsky casually admits he spent the night enjoying a performance at the Bouffes-Parisiens theatre. The gathering continues its lighthearted evening routine, filled with familiar social pleasantries and witty banter among the city elite.

Anna arrives at Princess Betsy's salon, greeted warmly by the hostess and a deeply expectant Wronsky. The conversation among the guests briefly touches on missions and society marriages, but Anna soon pulls Wronsky aside. She expresses her displeasure with his actions and demands that he travel to Moscow to implore Kitty's forgiveness, wanting everything to end and hoping to restore her own peace of mind. Wronsky rejects the idea of offering her peace, passionately declaring that she is his life and that their future holds only despair or profound happiness. Although Anna tries to maintain her composure and urges him to remain friends, her loving gaze betrays her true feelings and conveys a silent confession. Wronsky takes heart from her response, asserting that he will never settle for mere friendship. Shortly afterward, Alexei Alexandrovitch arrives at the salon and engages in a serious political discussion with Betsy. While observing couples notice Anna and Wronsky's isolated conversation, Alexei Alexandrovitch remains completely undisturbed. When he eventually suggests leaving for home, Anna refuses and decides to stay for supper. As the evening concludes, Wronsky accompanies her to her carriage and reiterates his love, to which Anna replies that the word holds a much deeper and graver meaning for her before departing.