The Duel · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Duel by Aleksandr Kuprin.

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Chapter 1
I
The chapter opens with the 6th Company's afternoon drill, where soldiers are instructed in garrison duty. Sublieutenant Romashov is publicly berated by Colonel Shulgovich for a Tartar soldier's ignorance, resulting in Romashov's arrest. Captain Sliva rebukes Romashov afterward. Junior officers Viätkin, Lbov, and Biek-Agamalov discuss the futility of drill, sabre-cutting, and Shulgovich's tyranny.
Chapter 2
II
Romashov, feeling lonely and alienated in his provincial garrison, indulges in grandiose daydreams of a brilliant military career and heroic exploits, contrasting sharply with his shabby reality. He decides to visit the railway station to escape his boredom, but is embarrassed by his worn uniform. The chapter vividly portrays his fantasies of glory and his painful awareness of his lowly status.
Chapter 3
III
Romashov lies in his room, tormented by boredom and self-disgust. He receives a sentimental letter from Raisa Peterson, his married lover, which he finds repulsive. He reflects on his abandoned ambitions and the dreary routine of garrison life. His servant Hainán, a Circassian, provides a moment of distraction with his peculiar story of taking the oath of allegiance. Despite resolving to stay home, Romashov feels an irresistible pull toward the Nikoläievs' house.
Chapter 4
IV
Romashov visits the Nikoläievs' home, where he engages in conversation with Shurochka and Nikoläiev. Shurochka passionately defends dueling as necessary for military honor, recounting a recent duel that ended in death. Romashov, infatuated, observes her intently and reflects on her beauty. The chapter ends with Romashov leaving into the dark, muddy night.
Chapter 5
V
Romashov, humiliated after overhearing servants mock his frequent visits to the Nikoläievs, resolves never to return. To spite Shurochka, he visits Nasanski, where he reads a letter from Alexandra Petrovna that reveals a past love and her rejection of Nasanski's weakness. The encounter deepens their mutual understanding of shared secrets. Later, Romashov dreams of a childhood 'double' suffering the same military drudgery he endures.

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