# Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhludoff — Resurrection character guide

> Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhludoff in Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy.

**Role:** major

**Also known as:** Nekhludoff, Dmitri Ivanovich, Prince Nekhludoff

**First appearance:** 0004-i

## Snapshot

A wealthy prince whose comfortable conscience cracks when a face from his past appears in the jury box, forcing him to weigh atonement against self-interest.

## Who they are

Nekhludoff moves easily through drawing rooms, courts, and prisons alike, a nobleman whose charm and rank open every door. Yet the trial of a woman he once seduced and abandoned splits him in two: the man who wants to do good and the voice whispering that she will only be a stone around his neck. His wavering resolve—whether to give her money and walk away or follow her into suffering—is the hinge on which the whole novel turns.

## In the story

### [Resurrection](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/resurrection)

Awakens in Moscow, tormented by memories of seducing Katúsha, and resolves to seek her out after learning of her trial.

### [Book I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/book-i)

Awakens in Moscow and recalls his seduction of Katusha, beginning his moral awakening.

### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/ii)

The nephew of the maiden ladies who seduced Katúsha when she was sixteen, giving her a hundred rouble note before leaving.

### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/iii)

Awakens in his apartment, reads letters, and reflects on his past and present moral conflicts.

### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/iv)

Nekhlúdoff is the central character in this chapter, grappling with his artistic doubts, his indecision about marrying Missy, and his preparations to attend court.

### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/v)

Arrives late at the courthouse, feels superior to the other jurymen, and is annoyed by Peter Gerasimovitch's familiarity.

### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/vii)

Present as a juryman; responds to his name being called by the usher.

### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/viii)

Among the jurymen drawn by lot, he participates in the swearing-in and selection of the foreman.

### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/ix)

Sits in the front row, watches the trial, and recognizes Maslova as Katusha, the girl he seduced and abandoned; experiences a fierce internal struggle.

### [The Trial Begins: The Indictment and Pleas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xi)

Present as a juror; fears Maslova has recognized him and feels the blood rush to his face.

### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xii)

Recalls his first summer with his aunts, his youthful idealism, and his innocent attraction to Katúsha.

### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xiii)

Undergoes a moral transformation from an honest, unselfish youth to a depraved, selfish officer, having ceased to believe in himself and adopted the values of his aristocratic and military peers.

### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xiv)

Arrives at his aunts' estate, feels joy at seeing Katúsha, and struggles between his spiritual and animal selves.

### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xv)

Recalls the Easter mass and his pure love for Katúsha, reflecting on how everything changed after that night.

### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xvi)

Struggles with his animal passions, overriding his spiritual love for Katúsha; he pursues her despite her resistance.

### [The Seduction](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xvii)

Observes Katúsha from outside, knocks at her window, and later seduces her, rationalizing his actions afterward.

### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xviii)

Reflects on his past seduction of Katúsha and his attempts to forget his guilt.

### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xix)

Sits in the jurymen's room, tormented by guilt and self-disgust; he fears Máslova has recognized him and feels a loathing mixed with pity.

### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xx)

Sits in the jury box, feeling disgust and a sense of connection between the corpse, Katusha's life, and his own actions.

### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxi)

Hears Máslova's sobs and struggles to suppress his own tears, fearing public disgrace.

### [XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxii)

Serves on the jury, observes Máslova, and experiences a moral awakening as he recognizes her and confronts his past.

### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxiii)

Nekhlúdoff is present during the jury's deliberations, too excited and conflicted to notice the omission in the verdict that condemns Máslova to Siberia.

### [The Sentence](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxiv)

Horrified by the verdict, he pursues the president to argue for a correction, realizing his own omission in the jury's answer.

### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxv)

Seeks advocate Fanárin to appeal Máslova's sentence; feels conflicted but calmer after taking action.

### [XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxvi)

Feels repulsed by the Korchágins' luxury and Missy's affected manner; preoccupied with Máslova's trial.

### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxvii)

Feels like a horse being harnessed; finds the social atmosphere oppressive and false.

### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxviii)

Experiences a spiritual awakening, resolves to confess his sins and change his life.

### [XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxiii)

Resolves to confess his sin to Máslova, marry her if necessary, and reform his life; dismisses his servants and plans to give up his house.

### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxiv)

Serves as a juror, reflects on the injustice of the legal system and his own moral guilt.

### [XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxv)

Confronts the Procureur, declares his intention to marry Máslova, and refuses to continue as a juror.

### [XXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxvi)

Visits two prisons seeking an interview with Máslova; writes a diary entry confessing his sin and resolving to atone.

### [XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxvii)

Appears in Máslova's memory as the man who seduced and abandoned her; seen laughing in a first-class carriage.

### [XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxix)

Observes the prison church service, reflecting on its emptiness and hypocrisy.

### [XLI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xli)

Visits the prison to see Máslova, experiences moral revulsion at the prison conditions.

### [XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xlii)

Nekhlúdoff approaches the officer with strained politeness, asks to see Máslova, and is led to the women's interviewing room.

### [XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xliii)

Nekhlúdoff confesses his sin to Máslova, asks for forgiveness, and offers to help. He struggles with inner temptation but resolves to continue his moral awakening.

### [XLIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xliv)

Horrified by Máslova's transformation, he resolves to tell her he will marry her.

### [XLV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xlv)

Visits Fanárin to discuss Máslova's appeal; considers simplifying his life but postpones changes.

### [XLVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xlvii)

Arrives at the prison with the petition, observes the inspector's agitation, and guides Máslova through signing.

### [XLVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xlviii)

Visits Máslova in prison, declares his intention to marry her, and is harshly rejected.

### [XLIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xlix)

Leaves the prison with a full understanding of his crime; receives a note from Véra Doúkhova; recalls his past hunting trip and his earlier encounter with Doúkhova.

### [L](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/l)

Visits Máslennikoff to secure prison visitation permissions for Máslova and Vera Doukhova, and remains firm in his resolve despite fear.

### [LI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/li)

Visits the prison, inquires about Máslova, and arranges to see Doúkhova and the Menshóffs.

### [LII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lii)

Visits the prison cells, listens to Menshóff's story, and promises to help.

### [LIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/liii)

Walks through the prison corridor, feels sympathy and horror at the prisoners' plight, and learns about innocent men being held and corporal punishment still in use.

### [LIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/liv)

Visits the prison office and observes the scene with curiosity and compassion.

### [LV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lv)

Visits Véra Doúkhova in prison and listens to her revolutionary story and requests.

### [LVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lvi)

Witnesses the prison farewells, experiences moral nausea, and is reminded of the injustice of the system.

### [LVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lvii)

Seeks the advocate's help for the Menshóffs and the 130 imprisoned men, then visits Máslennikoff to request Máslova's transfer and the release of the innocent men.

### [LVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lviii)

Visits Máslennikoff to advocate for Máslova's hospital transfer and to report the unjust detention of 130 prisoners; leaves in disgust after encountering social hypocrisy.

### [LIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/lix)

Visits Máslova again, reaffirms his offer of marriage, and plans to go to Petersburg to appeal the case.

### [Book II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/book-ii)

Travels to his aunts' estate, decides to give land to peasants, and reflects on his past with Katúsha.

### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/i)

Travels to Kousmínski to settle estate matters; decides to let land to peasants; wrestles with inner conflict about his motives.

### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/ii)

Awakens with resolve to give land to peasants; feels ashamed and dissatisfied after the meeting.

### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/iii)

Arrives at Panóvo, reflects on his youth and his memories of Katúsha, and plans to address the peasants about land reform.

### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/iv)

Walks through the village, observes peasant life, and visits a peasant's hut.

### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/v)

Visits Matróna to inquire about Katúsha's baby and learns of its death; walks with village boys and observes the poverty caused by his own estate's policies.

### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/vi)

Observes the peasants' suffering, gives away money, resolves to give up his land to the peasants, and writes down his project.

### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/vii)

Attempts to persuade the peasants to accept his land reform proposal, but is met with suspicion and refusal.

### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/viii)

Experiences a moral awakening, resolves to help Katúsha and to study the justice system, feels joy in serving others.

### [The Land Conference](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/ix)

Explains Henry George's land tax to the peasants, offers to give away his land, and feels joy at shedding property.

### [Nekhlúdoff's Return to Town](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/x)

Returns to town, deeply affected by the poverty of the peasants; decides to move to a modest lodging near the prison; reflects on his past life after meeting Schönbock.

### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xi)

Visits the advocate to discuss prison cases and reflects on the difference between his views and those of the advocate's circle.

### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xii)

Rides to the prison, reflects on the uselessness of the palace and the exploitation of peasants, questions the cab driver about land and migration.

### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xiii)

Visits Máslova in the hospital, gives her a photograph, and announces his plan to appeal her case in Petersburg.

### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xiv)

Arrives in Petersburg with four legal and humanitarian matters to pursue; stays with his aunt and confides in her about Máslova and his moral awakening.

### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xv)

Visits Mariette and Count Iván Micháelovitch to request help for prisoners, feeling conflicted about seeking favors in aristocratic circles.

### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xvi)

Visits the Senate and Senator Wolff to advance Máslova's case; reflects on the corrupting influence of high society.

### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xvii)

Dines with the Countess and family, reflects on the injustice of the duel case, and leaves the sermon in disgust.

### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xviii)

Visits Baron Vorobióff to petition for Theodosia Birukoff and discusses Máslova's case with the advocate.

### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xix)

Visits the General to request interviews and books for prisoners, feels repugnance and pity.

### [The Senate Hearing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xx)

Attends the Senate hearing for Máslova's case, observes the proceedings, and recognizes Selenín.

### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxi)

Present in the Senate, hoping for the repeal of Máslova's sentence.

### [XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxii)

Horrified by the Senate's rejection of Máslova's appeal; confronts Selenín about the injustice.

### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxiii)

Nekhlúdoff reunites with his old friend Selenin, and his presence serves as a reminder of Selenin's former, more truthful self.

### [XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxiv)

Feels sad and confused after the Senate's rejection; visits his aunt and interacts with Mariette.

### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxv)

Awakens with guilt over his evil thoughts, reaffirms his resolve, and visits Shoústova in Petersburg.

### [XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxvi)

Engages in conversation with the aunt about prison conditions, accepts a letter to deliver to Véra Doúkhova.

### [XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxvii)

Visits Bogotyréff and Toporóff to advocate for the sectarians; reflects on the corruption and hypocrisy of the legal and religious systems.

### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxviii)

Attends the theatre, struggles with temptation and moral clarity, reflects on the corruption of society.

### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxix)

Visits the prison to inform Máslova of the Senate's decision; struggles with feelings of wounded pride and pity; ultimately reaffirms his commitment to follow her.

### [Nekhlúdoff's Classification of Prisoners and His Search for Justice](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxx)

Reflects on the classification of prisoners and his own moral awakening; organizes his affairs into three portfolios and studies criminology.

### [XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxi)

The protagonist, whose actions and intentions are discussed by his sister and brother-in-law.

### [XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxii)

Defends his plan to marry Máslova and argues with Rogózhinsky about justice and land reform.

### [XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxiii)

Engages in a heated debate with his brother-in-law about the justice system, feeling remorse afterward for wounding his sister.

### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxiv)

Reads his diary, reflects on his inner change and pain regarding Máslova, and rushes to the prison to witness the departure of the prisoners.

### [XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxv)

Follows the procession in a trap, tries to approach Máslova but is stopped by the sergeant, observes the crowd's reactions.

### [XXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxvi)

Follows the convicts in the heat, stops for a drink, attempts to write to Nathalie, and intervenes when a convict collapses.

### [XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxvii)

Follows the bodies of two dead convicts to the police station hospital, questioning the doctor about the cause of death.

### [Chapter XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxviii)

Visits the prisoners at the station, speaks with Máslova, and attempts to assist a woman in labor and Tarás.

### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxxix)

Nekhlúdoff is at the station, exhausted and troubled by the morning's events. He speaks with his sister about the deaths of the convicts and his plans to follow Máslova.

### [XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xl)

Reflects on the deaths of convicts and the nature of officialdom, concluding that love is essential in human relations.

### [XLI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xli)

Travels in the third-class carriage, listens to Tarás's story, and observes the other passengers.

### [XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xlii)

Observes the Korchágins at the station, invites workmen into his carriage, and listens to their stories.

### [Book III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/book-iii)

Continues his journey with the prisoners, seeking redemption and justice for Máslova.

### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/iv)

Nekhlúdoff's magnanimity and past are contrasted with Símonson's love for Máslova as she is now.

### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/v)

Experiences a profound emotional shift, feeling permanent pity and tenderness for Máslova and everyone he meets; re-evaluates his views on political prisoners.

### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/vi)

Listens to Kryltzóff's story and gains a deeper understanding of revolutionary motivations.

### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/vii)

Arrives at the halting station seeking an interview with Katúsha, after being denied permission at previous stations.

### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/viii)

Visits the halting station to see Máslova; speaks seriously and attentively to the convoy officer, trying to encourage compassion for prisoners.

### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/ix)

Enters the prison courtyard and building, experiencing moral nausea and shame as he passes through the crowded, foul-smelling corridors.

### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/x)

Nekhlúdoff is approached by Makár Dévkin and learns of the identity swap; he already knows about the scheme and promises to help.

### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xi)

Visits the political prisoners' quarters, interacts with various prisoners, and feels a mix of kindness and depression due to Novódvoroff's irony.

### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xii)

Present during the arrival of Nabátoff and Kondrátieff; greeted by them, though Kondrátieff is reluctant to shake his hand.

### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xiii)

Present in the group, talking with Kryltzóff as the others gather for tea.

### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xiv)

Sits with Kryltzóff, tells the story of Makár's crime, and asks Máslova for her opinion.

### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xv)

Reflects on Novódvoroff's character and feels antipathy towards him despite his own goodwill.

### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xvi)

Listens to Simonson's proposal and supports Maslova's freedom to choose; also agrees to report a prisoner exchange.

### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xvii)

Confronts his feelings about Simonson's proposal and speaks with Maslova about her decision.

### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xviii)

Returns to the men's room after visiting Máslova, listens to the political prisoners' discussion, and later leaves through the crowded criminal quarters.

### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xix)

Nekhlúdoff is deeply troubled by the prison conditions and systemic injustice, reflecting on the depravity and violence he has witnessed.

### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xx)

Receives Mary Pávlovna's note, hurries to overtake the gang, speaks with Kryltzóff and Mary Pávlovna, then rides ahead.

### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxi)

Stands on the raft, reflecting on Kryltzóff and Katúsha, then engages in a philosophical conversation with the old man.

### [XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxii)

Visits the Governor General to advocate for Máslova and a political prisoner's marriage.

### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxiii)

Receives the mitigation of Máslova's sentence and tries to visit the prison.

### [XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxiv)

Visits the Governor's office, writes letters, attends the General's dinner party, and prepares to visit the prison with the Englishman.

### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxv)

Visits the prison with the Englishman, interprets for him, and has an emotional interview with Máslova.

### [XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxvi)

Accompanies the Englishman through the prison cells, interpreting and observing the squalid conditions.

### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxvii)

Visits the prison cells, recognizes the old man from the ferry, and later identifies Kryltzóff's body in the mortuary.

### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/chapters/xxviii)

Nekhlúdoff reads the Gospel, interprets the Sermon on the Mount as practical laws, and experiences a spiritual transformation, deciding to live by these commandments.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/characters/nekhludoff
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/resurrection_se/characters
