The Second Part’s New Route

This thread traces the surviving Part II as Chichikov’s pursuit shifts from fictitious serfs toward real property, guidance, and a fragile possibility of reform.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A New Host

A New Host Arrival at the Estate Paul Ivanovitch Chichikov reaches Tientietnikov’s estate after further travel. The young landowner’s isolation and neglected household contrast with the impressive landscape surrounding his property. A Different Opportunity Chichikov first builds a comfortable relationship with his host instead of immediately asking about dead souls. His stay opens a new route into local society and introduces the possibility of buying an actual estate.

Repairing an Old Offense

Repairing an Old Offense A Broken Acquaintance Chichikov learns that Tientietnikov’s sensitive pride has kept him estranged from General Betrishev after an exchange of disrespect. The break also cuts him off from Ulinka, whom he loves. An Improvised Mediation Chichikov visits the General and invents a history project to reopen contact. The maneuver eases the atmosphere and demonstrates how his social tact can serve aims beyond the dead-soul scheme.

A Traveling Companion

A Traveling Companion Weariness and Invitation Chichikov meets Platon Mikhailovich, a wealthy man dissatisfied with life and unable to explain his own boredom. Chichikov proposes travel as a remedy and an opportunity to see the world. The Journey Expands Platon accepts the invitation, and his brother Vassili gives cautious approval. Chichikov gains a companion whose resources and temperament may ease the journey, while his own motives remain practical and self-interested.

The Estate Purchase

The Estate Purchase A Real Property Chichikov visits the failing estate of Khlobuev and negotiates to buy it. Kostanzhoglo’s example has made land management seem both profitable and morally purposeful to him. Ambition Reasserted The purchase replaces the scheme’s imaginary Kherson holdings with an actual estate, though Chichikov still looks for advantageous terms and ways to postpone payment. His new direction is therefore promising but not yet a moral transformation.

Release and Departure

Release and Departure A Conditional Freedom After arrest and intervention by Murazov, Chichikov is released on condition that he leave town. He has briefly entertained repentance but is again drawn toward money, clothing, and the prospects of his ventures. An Unfinished Future He departs with his papers and a new suit, neither securely reformed nor returned to his former confidence. The surviving manuscript ends during the Governor-General’s appeal to officials, leaving Chichikov’s future unresolved.

At the opening of Part II

During Chichikov’s stay at Tientietnikov’s estate

After the visit to General Betrishev

After visiting Koshkarev’s estate

Near the surviving end of Part II