# Kitty Shcherbatskaya — Anna Karenina character guide > Kitty Shcherbatskaya in Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Kitty, Princess Shtcherbatskaya, Kitty Shtcherbatskaya, Kitty Levin **First appearance:** 0000-part-i-i ## Snapshot A young princess whose first season goes badly wrong, and who must rebuild her sense of self before she can recognize the love that has been waiting for her. ## Who they are Kitty enters the novel as a debutante with two suitors and a mother who is managing both, and leaves Moscow humiliated by a refusal she did not see coming. At a German spa she falls under the spell of the devout Varenka and a world of self-denial that seems to offer a way out of her grief. Her recovery is quiet and interior, and it prepares her for a marriage that will test her ideals against the ordinary demands of a household. ## In the story ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-v) Mentioned indirectly as the subject of Levin's anxious inquiry. Oblonsky reveals she will be skating at the Zoological Gardens. ### [Levin's Past and Present: The Shtcherbatsky Household and His Love for Kitty](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-vi) Described as the object of Levin's profound love and idealization. She is portrayed as a perfect, almost unearthly creature in Levin's eyes, the youngest sister he finally realizes he is destined to love. ### [The Skating Rink](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-ix) Appears radiant and charming on the ice. Initially warm and friendly with Levin, but her expression suddenly turns cold and thoughtful after his heartfelt comment, suggesting an inner trouble she will not share. ### [Levin Confides in Oblonsky](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-x) The central subject of Levin's hopes and fears. Her potential acceptance or refusal is the 'question of life and death' for him. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xi) The subject of the rivalry between Levin and Vronsky, though she does not appear. Her mother's favor is hinted at being with Vronsky. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xii) The central figure of the chapter; an 18-year-old debutante experiencing her first season. She is the object of affection for both Levin and Vronsky. She is in love with Vronsky and becomes agitated when her mother tries to discuss Levin's return, insisting she knows her own mind. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xiii) In a state of high tension before the evening, comparing her feelings for Levin and Vronsky. She is horrified by the necessity of wounding Levin but feels she must refuse his proposal, which she does after a fleeting moment of happiness. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xiv) Her eyes reveal to Levin her love for Vronsky; she pities Levin and feels guilty for his suffering; acts as a social hostess, fetching a table for the proposed séance. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xv) Torn between pity for the rejected Levin and happiness over her love for Vronsky, her joy is poisoned by inner doubt, leading her to pray for mercy. ### [Vronsky's Background and Reflections](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xvi) Present in Vronsky's thoughts as the object of his tender feelings. Her trust and love, communicated through looks and tones, make him feel 'better and purer,' though he misunderstands her family's expectations. ### [Anna at the Oblonskys'](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xx) Visits Dolly with trepidation but is quickly captivated by Anna. She confides her excitement for the ball and blushes when Vronsky is mentioned. ### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xxi) Blushes, believing she alone understands Vronsky came looking for her but refused to come up because Anna was present and it was late. ### [The Ball](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xxii) At the peak of her youthful beauty and confidence, she observes the ballroom with keen perception. She feels admiration for Anna, confusion and pain regarding Vronsky's delayed invitation to waltz, and is acutely aware of social dynamics. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xxiii) Observes Anna and Vronsky's connection at the ball, realizes her hopes are lost, and is crushed with despair, forcing herself to continue dancing. ### [Levin Visits His Brother Nikolay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xxiv) The implicit cause of Levin's despair. Her rejection leads him to question his own worth and drives him to seek out his brother. ### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-i-xxviii) Absent, sending a note that she has a headache; Anna reveals Kitty is jealous of her due to the events at the ball. ### [The Consultation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-i) Physically ill and wasting away, but her condition is rooted in heartbreak and shame. She finds the medical examination ludicrous and is forced to pretend cheerfulness for her mother. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-ii) Emotionally raw and ashamed over her heartbreak. Bursts into tears when her father indirectly references her need to recover. Her fragility is the central concern of the family discussion. ### [Kitty's Confession](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-iii) In profound despair and self-loathing after Vronsky's rejection; views the world, marriage, and herself through a 'coarse' and 'loathsome' lens; eventually breaks down and confesses her misery to Dolly. ### [The Confession at the Soiree](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-vii) Mentioned as being very ill in a letter from Moscow, which Anna uses to provoke and test Vronsky's reaction. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xii) Remains the object of Levin's painful memories; he hopes news of her marriage will finally cure him of his attachment. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xv) Not present, but her condition is the subject of the pivotal conversation. Oblonsky reveals she is very ill, not thinking of marriage, and has been sent abroad for her health. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xvii) Discussed indirectly. Levin learns she did not marry Vronsky but is ill, which he interprets as being ill from love for the man who slighted her, compounding his own sense of humiliation. ### [The Crystallization of Society](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xxx) Deeply bored by the spa's social routine; idealizes Varenka as a model of purposeful living and is revolted by the 'shameful hawking about' of the marriage market. ### [Kitty's Admiration and the Princess's Inquiry](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxi) Observes and admires Varenka, is delighted when her mother makes the introduction, and finally meets her new friend. ### [Varenka's Past and Kitty's Admiration](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxii) Deeply fascinated by Varenka's serene character; contrasts Varenka's calm with her own lingering shame over Vronsky's rejection; seeks Varenka's secret to inner peace. ### [Kitty's Spiritual Awakening and Doubt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxiii) Undergoes a spiritual awakening, inspired by Varenka and Madame Stahl to help the sick, but becomes troubled by the painter Petrov's apparent affection and his wife's jealousy. ### [The Prince's Perspective](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxiv) Recovered and initially defensive of her new friends, but her father's observations permanently shatter her heavenly image of Madame Stahl. ### [Kitty's Crisis of Conscience](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxv) Experiences a crisis, accusing herself of living a 'sham' by forcing virtue and self-improvement. She feels alienated from the world of sickness and resolves to return to Russia. ### [Dolly's Country Struggles](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-vii) Mentioned as Dolly's hope for a summer companion; she is abroad but prescribed country bathing and is eager to join Dolly. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-ix) Not physically present, but her planned summer visit is the pivotal news Dolly shares with Levin, causing him significant emotional turmoil. ### [Levin's Pride and Dolly's Misery](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-x) Though absent, she is the central subject of the conversation. Dolly reveals Kitty's past misery and doubt between Levin and Vronsky. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-xii) Appears briefly in a carriage at dawn; her gaze and recognition of Levin instantly dissolve his other plans, symbolizing the solution to his existential 'riddle'. ### [XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-xxiv) Though physically absent, her presence looms large in Levin's thoughts. He longs to see her but feels a barrier due to his past proposal and her refusal, making a meeting impossible in his mind. ### [Levin's Work and the Prospect of Travel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-xxx) Mentioned as the source of Levin's painful memories of her refusal and their last meeting. ### [Part 3, Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iii-xxxii) Mentioned indirectly through her cousin, Shtcherbatsky, whom Levin meets on the train, highlighting the connection to Levin's recent romantic past as he enters a period of crisis. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-vii) Levin hears she may be in Petersburg and is an intended guest for the dinner, but he suppresses his feelings about her. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-ix) Deeply flustered and blushing at Levin's arrival. She struggles to maintain composure but is visibly delighted and tender towards him. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-xi) Similarly indifferent to the group's topics, focused entirely on her intimate, non-verbal exchange with Levin. She reveals Turovtsin's noble actions during the scarlet fever outbreak to defend his character. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-xiii) Seeks out Levin to thank him. Engages in a deep, understanding conversation about arguments and then participates in the initial-letter game, confessing her love and regret over her past refusal. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-xv) Has also been waiting anxiously for Levin. She runs to him, shyly and happily gives herself to him, and is the first to declare their mutual love. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-iv-xvi) Accepts Levin's past confessions with pain but ultimate forgiveness. She is resolute in her love and defends Levin's worth to others like Countess Nordston. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-i) Present in Levin's thoughts during the service. He recalls her laughing and examining the lines on his hand, a memory that distracts him from the prayers. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-ii) Calmly sorting her trousseau when Levin arrives in distress; she reassures him of her love, explaining she loves him because she understands him completely. ### [The Wedding Day](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-iii) Anxiously waits at home in her full wedding dress, looking out the window for over half an hour for news of the bridegroom's arrival at the church. ### [The Wedding Ceremony](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-iv) Filled with joy at the completion of a six-week internal transformation, barely hearing the service, focused on the new life beginning. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-v) The bride, observed by all as a 'pretty dear... like a lamb decked with flowers.' ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-vi) Radiant with happiness, her feeling of triumph floods her soul; she smiles unconsciously, infecting everyone with her joy. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xiv) Immensely preoccupied with the practical details of setting up their household, finding joy and purpose in her new role. Experiences jealousy and anger during their first quarrel, but the reconciliation deepens their bond. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xv) Sews contentedly, playfully trying to catch Levin's attention. She is perfectly satisfied in her love and is instinctively preparing for her future domestic life, though Levin does not yet perceive this. ### [A Letter and a Quarrel](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xvi) Insists on accompanying Levin to his dying brother, seeing it as her wifely duty. She is deeply wounded when Levin misinterprets her motives, leading to a tearful quarrel and eventual reconciliation. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xvii) Shows initial curiosity but quickly overcomes it with compassion. Insists on seeing Nikolay to support both him and her husband, demonstrating maturity and selflessness in the face of death. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xviii) Acts with practical compassion, cleaning, organizing, and nursing Nikolay; understands his needs intuitively; her care briefly improves his spirits and the room's atmosphere. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xix) Demonstrates calm, efficient care for the dying Nikolay, persuading him to receive last rites and creating order in their temporary lodgings, showing her deep, unshakeable faith. ### [The Agony of Nikolay Levin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xx) Devotes herself to nursing Nikolay, trying to soothe him and maintain hope. She becomes physically and morally exhausted by the ordeal, but remains steadfast in her care until ordered to leave. ### [The Theater Scandal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-v-xxxiii) Not present, but her sister Varya (Dolly's sister) provides Vronsky with details of the insult. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-i) Hosting the summer gathering while pregnant; carefully manages the household and observes the potential romance between Sergey Ivanovitch and Varenka. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-ii) Eagerly discusses the potential match between Sergey Ivanovitch and Varenka, reminisces about Levin's proposal, and is annoyed when her mother brings up Vronsky. ### [A Walk and a Conversation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-iii) Actively engages Levin in conversation to dispel his gloomy mood. She questions his self-criticism with a loving, ironic smile, pointing to his own work and goodness. She is anxiously hopeful for a proposal between Sergey Ivanovitch and Varenka. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-iv) Mentioned in Sergey Ivanovitch's internal comparison as an example of unconscious, childlike religious goodness, contrasting with Varenka's principled faith. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-v) Immediately discerns from the couple's expressions that her matchmaking plan has failed. Shares a lighthearted, intimate moment with Levin about the non-event. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-vi) Happy and conscious of her love for Levin, but also falling in with the general tone of gaiety, which annoys her husband. She defends Varenka and is slightly annoyed by her mother's interference. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-vii) Initially unaware of Levin's distress, then tries to understand and reassure him. She is pained by his suffering and reaffirms her exclusive love for him. ### [The Shooting Party Departs](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-viii) Seen briefly as Levin bids her farewell. She is distressed at the parting but puts on a cheerful face for her husband's sake, urging him to enjoy his trip. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-xiii) Absent but present via a letter assuring Levin of her health and happiness, and encouraging him to stay longer if the sport is good. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-xiv) Feels disturbed by Vassenka's conversation and aware of its effect on Levin; feels guilty and trapped by social politeness; seeks reconciliation with Levin, affirming her innocence and shared happiness. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-xv) Though not physically present in the main scene, her reported distress and the quarrel with Levin are the central catalysts for the chapter's conflict. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-xxiii) The subject of initial inquiry; Anna worries Kitty hates her, and Dolly confirms such things are not 'forgiven,' though Kitty is now happy. ### [The Elections in Kashin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vi-xxvi) In Moscow awaiting confinement; urges Levin to go to the elections to relieve his boredom and orders his uniform, which influences his decision. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-i) Overdue in pregnancy but blissful; consciously loves her future child. Successfully manages a tense meeting with Vronsky, maintaining composure and feeling satisfied with her loyalty to Levin. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-ii) Manages the household schedule, expresses concern over their spending and Dolly's financial troubles, shares a tender moment with Levin about her pregnancy. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-iv) Mentioned as the reason for the visit and the source of a commission for Levin regarding Oblonsky. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xi) Initially conceals her hurt and jealousy upon hearing of Levin's visit to Anna. Her emotions eventually erupt into tears and accusations, fearing Anna's influence on Levin. The argument reveals her insecurity and the strain in their marriage. ### [The Beginning](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xiii) Begins labor; displays a radiant, simple, and courageous love; manages the household preparations calmly while enduring pain. ### [The Birth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xv) Endures a painful and frightening childbirth, calling for Levin and her mother. After the delivery, she is exhausted, serene, and blissful. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xvi) Recovering from childbirth, radiant and focused on the baby, asking to hold him and showing maternal instinct. ### [Anna's Desperate Visit](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xxviii) Initially conflicted about meeting Anna, but her antagonism melts upon seeing Anna's distress. She feels compassion for Anna, who responds with a pointed, hostile remark about Levin. ### [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xxix) Anna fixates on Kitty's imagined jealousy and hatred, seeing her as a mirror of the mutual contempt she believes defines all human relationships. ### [Anna's Final Journey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-vii-xxx) Briefly recalled by Anna as someone whose judgmental gaze would persist even if she married Vronsky, symbolizing perpetual social condemnation. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-vi) Manages the household and guests while being intensely attuned to her baby Mitya's needs, experiencing the deep spiritual connection of motherhood. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-vii) Cares for baby Mitya, reflects on Levin's unbelief and innate goodness, and recalls his selfless plan to help Dolly. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-viii) Mentioned indirectly as Levin's wife, whose simple faith contrasts with his turmoil. Her recent confinement was the context for Levin's momentary, uncharacteristic prayer. ### [Levin's Purpose in Country Life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-x) Referenced as Levin's wife, whom he must attend to as part of his daily familial obligations. ### [The Storm](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-xvii) Is caught in the storm with Mitya and the nurse. She is drenched but calm, defending her actions to a worried Levin, showing her maternal dedication. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-xviii) Tenderly bathes Mitya and joyfully points out the baby's recognition of his parents. She expresses happiness at Levin's growing love for their son and reflects on the pleasant day. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/chapters/part-viii-xix) Interrupts Levin's contemplation with a practical request about preparing a room for Sergey Ivanovitch, sensing but not probing his thoughtful mood. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/characters/ekaterina_alexandrovna_shcherbatskaya - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/anna_karenina_se/characters