War & Peace Podnotes, A Study Guide

We are brought to early 1806, where Tolstoy uses Nicholas and Denisov to transition the story to Peace.  Rostov has went from witnessing Czar Alexander crying under a tree near Austerlitz to returning to his Moscow estate. This chapter addresses his warm embrace.Nicholas was traveling with Denisov, who is partially based on the literary Hussar, Dennis Davydov. Rostov persuaded Denisov to accompany him and the wild hussar enjoyed a great deal of wine on the journey.  During the home stretch, it meant a great deal for Rostov to notice recognizable streets, stores and most especially his mansion. Rostov runs into the Great Hall but his family already retired. When servants notice Nicholas, they become elated. Word spread like joyful lightening and from all angles Rostov was attacked with hugs, kisses and shouts of ecstasy. The initial welcome included his father, Natasha, Vera, Sonya and little Petya, who clutched his brother’s leg.  Finally, the entire hold household was flocking the room, including maids, serf