Chapter 32: Anna Karénine - Tome I (Summary)

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.