Thank you for the systematization and questions, Simon. It immerses you very much in reading 📖
This story about “Ivan the Fool” is so tragic. It seems that the woman was not dressing up for fun at all, but for protection. Women in the early 19th century were generally not allowed to wander alone, at least everyone would have had a question. I wonder if Maria Bolkonskaya (pilgrim version) would end up dressing up as a man. or she would have to find a male companion.
I love the transitional feeling created by this part of the book. The language in the “hunt” chapters is beautiful. (Haven’t read ahead, so it’s still wolves, 1; hunters, 0. Beautiful won’t be the word when the killing of wolves starts.) I am wondering about Natasha’s new maturity. I like her more as the page count increases. I may need to re-read some passages to better understand what feels like a sudden change but is not — Tolstoy has hinted at her depth of character all along. There’s a lot going on in Natasha’s curious soul and big brain. I see why she’s a beloved character. Thank you for another excellent week of slow reading, Simon. Hope you (and Marya) have a restful Sunday.
Yeah I got bogged down in the hunt section. Not because of the animal cruelty, but b/c it just didn't engage me. I think it's the first time I skimmed the book since the new year!
I love the weekly audio. A great summary as always and very educational. Thank you Simon. Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Back tomorrow👍
Thank you Lynn!
Thank you for the systematization and questions, Simon. It immerses you very much in reading 📖
This story about “Ivan the Fool” is so tragic. It seems that the woman was not dressing up for fun at all, but for protection. Women in the early 19th century were generally not allowed to wander alone, at least everyone would have had a question. I wonder if Maria Bolkonskaya (pilgrim version) would end up dressing up as a man. or she would have to find a male companion.
I love the transitional feeling created by this part of the book. The language in the “hunt” chapters is beautiful. (Haven’t read ahead, so it’s still wolves, 1; hunters, 0. Beautiful won’t be the word when the killing of wolves starts.) I am wondering about Natasha’s new maturity. I like her more as the page count increases. I may need to re-read some passages to better understand what feels like a sudden change but is not — Tolstoy has hinted at her depth of character all along. There’s a lot going on in Natasha’s curious soul and big brain. I see why she’s a beloved character. Thank you for another excellent week of slow reading, Simon. Hope you (and Marya) have a restful Sunday.
Thanks Mary!
I admit, I skipped most of the hunt chapters and returned to serious reading with the marvelous return to Uncle’s house.
Yeah I got bogged down in the hunt section. Not because of the animal cruelty, but b/c it just didn't engage me. I think it's the first time I skimmed the book since the new year!