The Inner Struggle: Nekhludoff's Conscience vs. His Old Self

Chronicles Nekhludoff's internal battles as he tries to overcome his ingrained habits of privilege and selfishness to follow his new moral convictions.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Night of Awakening

The Night of Awakening The Horror of Self-Realization Nekhludoff returns home and is filled with self-loathing. He remembers his betrayal of Katusha and the entire corrupt life he has led. He paces the room, unable to sleep. The Voice of Conscience He hears two voices: one urges him to forget and continue his comfortable life; the other demands that he confess and atone. The spiritual man within him awakens and begins to fight the animal man. The Decision to Change He resolves to break all ties with his past: to tell the truth to Missy, to end his affair with Mary Vasilievna, and to help Maslova. The decision is painful but brings a sense of relief. He falls to his knees and prays.

The Temptation of Mariette

The Temptation of Mariette The Beautiful Woman Mariette, a beautiful society woman, flirts with Nekhludoff. She pretends to share his ideals, but he suspects she is simply playing a game. He is attracted to her, yet disgusted by the game. The Struggle with Desire Nekhludoff feels the pull of his old habits. He is tempted to forget his mission and enjoy the pleasures of Petersburg. But he remembers Maslova and the suffering he has seen, and he resists. The Victory of Conscience He leaves Mariette's house, feeling stronger for having resisted. The temptation was a test of his new resolve. He passes it, but not without a struggle. The experience teaches him that the path of virtue is never easy.

The Regret for the Lost Estate

The Regret for the Lost Estate The Moment of Weakness During his stay at Kousminski, Nekhludoff is overcome by regret for the beautiful house, the gardens, and the comfortable life he is giving up. He is tempted to reconsider his decision. The Logical Arguments His mind presents him with reasons to keep the estate: his future needs, the possibility of marriage, the duty to preserve the property for his children. The animal man speaks loudly. The Reaffirmation of Faith But Nekhludoff remembers the starving peasants and the prisoners, and he knows he cannot go back. He reaffirms his commitment to give up the land. The struggle is a recurring one, but each time he chooses the harder path, his spirit strengthens.

Night after the trial

In Petersburg

At Kousminski, in the evening