The Bond Between Maslova and Mary Pavlovna

Resurrection

The sisterly friendship that develops between the two women, based on mutual respect and a shared rejection of sexual love.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The First MeetingThe First Meeting
The First Meeting The Initial Disgust Mary Pavlovna, a general's daughter turned revolutionary, is initially repelled by Maslova's past as a prostitute. She struggles to overcome her prejudice. The Effort to Understand Mary Pavlovna forces herself to be kind to Maslova. She sees that Maslova is trying to change and respects her efforts. The ice begins to thaw. The Beginning of Friendship Maslova is drawn to Mary Pavlovna's strength and selflessness. She begins to admire her. The two women share a cell and soon become inseparable.
The Shared WorkThe Shared Work
The Shared Work Cleaning and Caring Maslova and Mary Pavlovna work together to clean the cells and care for the sick. They form an efficient team. Mary Pavlovna teaches Maslova to read and write better. The Rescued Child When the little girl Aksutka is separated from her father, Mary Pavlovna and Maslova take care of her. They share the responsibility, and the child becomes a bond between them. The Silent Understanding They do not need many words. They understand each other's pain and hopes. Mary Pavlovna's influence helps Maslova find a new sense of worth.
The ConfidencesThe Confidences
The Confidences The Rejection of Love Both women share a disdain for sexual love. Mary Pavlovna has never experienced it and finds it repulsive. Maslova has been traumatized by it. This common ground deepens their bond. The Talk of the Future They discuss their hopes for life after exile. Mary Pavlovna dreams of continuing to serve the people. Maslova dreams of a simple life with Simonson. They support each other's dreams. The Sisterhood Their friendship is one of the purest relationships in the novel. It is based on mutual respect, shared work, and a common rejection of the world's corruption. It is a testament to the possibility of solidarity among women.
When Maslova joins the political prisoners
During the journey
During the journey