War & Peace Podnotes, A Study Guide

This chapter involves Tolstoy’s craftsmanship of one of the most famous duels in fiction. It starts with Captain Denísov announcing the formalities and giving a vigorous countdown. On the count of three, each can advance and fire their one shot before reaching sabres that marked ten paces from the other. Dolokhov walked calmly without raising his pistol. He donned a wry smile and looked intently as he traveled though a fairly clear path. Pierre, however, ambulated clumsily and found himself encumbered by snow. Pierre held the pistol in a way that made little sense, with his right hand fully extended from his body. He was afraid of shooting himself.  Pierre visualized Dolokhov through the mist then bent his finger.  He had fired his only shot. Pierre shuddered at the sound and then stood still   The smoke from the gun mixed with the mist, making it difficult for anyone to see.  There was no return fire! Eventually, Pierre saw and heard Dolokhov coming toward him through the smoke. Dolokhov’s face was pale an