The ever irresponsible, unprincipled Anatole hopes to make love to Natásha.
Category: Book 08, P&V pgs. 535-600
Despite knowing she is engaged, Hélène invites Natásha to a social gathering so that Anatole can see her again.
At the party, Anatole declares his love for Natásha and kisses her. Natásha’s affections become confused.
With no reason to remain in Moscow, Count Rostóv decides to take the girls back to their country estate. Anatole sends a letter urging Natásha to run away with him.
Sónya finds Anatole’s letter to Natásha and confronts her. Natásha, it seems, is about to elope with Anatole. Sónya vows to guard her door to prevent Natásha from leaving.
Once the plan to abduct Natásha is in place, Dólokhov tries to get Anatole to reconsider.
The elopement plot is foiled.
In the aftermath of the failed elopement plot, Márya Dmítrievna is livid with Natásha, but hopes to keep the matter a secret from Count Rostóv.
Fearing a duel, Márya reaches out to Pierre for help. Pierre tells her about Anatole’s prior marriage.
Pierre finds Anatole at Hélène’s soriee and, after Pierre’s initial rage passes, convinces Anatole to leave Moscow.