Comparative analysis of Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov. Spiritual quest of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov

To "War and Peace" Leo Tolstoy walked painfully and for a long time. The first title of the conceived work sounded like “Decembrist”, then “All is well that ends well”, the next one is “1805”, and only in the final version does the written one become an epic novel about Russian society, the dialectics of the soul and the meaning of life. A comparative description of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov, the main characters of the story, is a clear confirmation of this.

Tolstoy and his heroes

Being a humanist writer, Lev Nikolaevich in each of his works explored the human soul, its internal development, rise or fall. He considered each person as a part of the universe, he was interested in everything in it. And the writer is trying to figure out what makes a person great or low, what is the most important thing in his life, whether he can influence history.

Leading the heroes of the novel through trials with money, love, war, the author always shows the inner experiences of people, the motives for which they act. It is from this point of view that the search for Andrei Bolkonsky is always considered, who turned out to be too good to live in this world.

The evolution of Pierre Bezukhov is the spiritual growth of the author himself, this character is very close to him, therefore it is for him that he marries Natasha Rostova (the most beloved image of Leo Tolstoy), whom he considered the ideal of a Russian woman.

There are more than five hundred characters in War and Peace, most of them are real historical figures. The ingenious multifaceted nature of the novel allowed Tolstoy to place all of them in their places, to identify parallels (maybe not even on purpose).

Image system

If we divide all the heroes of the work into four levels: historical, social, folk and natural (metaphysical), then it is easy to find the verticals to which Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov belong. And also those who correspond to them. This can be clearly shown in the table.

Crystalline Grid "War and Peace"

As you can see, Prince Andrei and Count Bezukhov, who are on the same rung of the social ladder, correspond to different people at the historical and national level, and their elements do not coincide.

The unrooted, groundless life of Bolkonsky, accompanied by constant striving for unattainable ideals, makes him related precisely to that bottomless blue sky that opened up to him on the Austerlitz field.

Pierre is not like that at all. It is he and those like him - Kutuzov and Platon Karataev - who can defeat Napoleon and Dolokhov, who imagines himself a superman, put in his place the one who knows how to fight so well, more precisely, her analysis, carried out at a metaphysical level, indicates that his element is water. And only she can extinguish any flame, even hostile raging.

Attitude towards high society

Despite all the difference in natures, Prince Andrei and Pierre are Tolstoy's favorite heroes. We meet them on the very first pages of the novel, which tells about salon life. And we immediately see the difference in their behavior, but we immediately understand that these people have deep respect and affection for each other.

At this, in modern slang, high society get-together, they are for one reason - the position obliges. But for the prince, everything here is uninteresting and understandable. Falsehood, vulgarity, the pursuit of money, corruption that reign in high society have long disgusted him, and he does not hide his contempt for those gathered.

The young count is a newcomer here, he reverently watches the guests and does not notice that he is treated like a second-class person, because he is an illegitimate son, and whether he will get the inheritance is still unknown. But the characterization of Pierre Bezukhov would be incomplete, if not to clarify that very little time will pass, and he, like the prince, will begin to treat with a sense of disgust the secular cold brilliance and empty chatter.

Character traits

The friendship of these people, so different neither externally nor internally, was built on trust and respect, because they felt the sincerity of these relations, the desire to help understand themselves and people. Perhaps this is a vivid example of how opposite characters can peacefully complement each other. They are interested together.

A comparative description of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov, as they appear at the beginning of the novel, will not be in favor of the latter. The prince has a sober, one might even say statesmanship, practical tenacity, the ability to bring the work begun to its logical conclusion. He is unusually restrained, collected, highly educated, intelligent, strong in character and has great willpower.

And Pierre is a sensitive, spontaneous, broad, sincere nature. After arriving from abroad, he finds himself not in the best company of secular revelers and loafers. Bezukhov understands what he is doing wrong, but the gentleness of his character does not allow him to break unnecessary ties. And then Kuragin appears with his sister, and it didn’t cost anything for this hardened intriguer to rob the gullible Pierre, marrying him to Helen.

And yet, Prince Andrei, so correct and cold, a rationalist to the marrow of his bones, it was with Pierre that he was free from conventions and allowed himself to speak quite frankly. Yes, and Bezukhov, in turn, believed only him and respected Bolkonsky infinitely.

love test

An amazing thing: having the experience of unsuccessful marriages, both heroes fall in love with one girl, amazing in her sincerity and spontaneity, with an irrepressible desire to live - Natasha Rostova. And now the comparative characteristics of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov, their attitude towards love will not be in favor of the first.

Yes, the prince turned out to be happier, because he became Natasha's fiancé, while the count did not even dare to admit to himself how dear this bright girl was to him. Young Rostova became a manifestation of the true feelings of Pierre and Andrei. If the first was ready to love silently all his life, because for him Natasha's happiness was above all, and therefore he was ready to forgive her everything, then the second turned out to be an ordinary owner.

Bolkonsky could not understand and accept the poor girl's remorse for treason, which, in fact, did not exist. Only on his deathbed, when the whole past life no longer mattered, when all ambitious thoughts were not needed, Prince Andrei understands what it is to love. But this feeling, rather, is not for a specific person, it is not even earthly, but divine.

Trial by war

The characterization of Andrei Bolkonsky as a warrior is brilliant. This is the same type of Russian officers who keep the army and the country. He is moderately cautious, courageous, quickly makes decisions in extreme situations, takes care of his subordinates. No wonder Kutuzov did not want to let him go from his headquarters to the front line.

The war of 1805, incomprehensible and unfair, devastated the prince. After the injury and the French captivity, when the ideal of Napoleon collapsed and depreciated in his eyes, Bolkonsky's life was empty. But we already see a different Andrei. Here he is with his people, and he realized that the main purpose of human existence is to help other people.

For Pierre, the war turned out to be the purgatory of the soul. He stayed in Moscow to kill Napoleon, but, saving the child, he was arrested, then he was preparing to be shot, and then he was expected to be captured and retreat with the French. A complete characterization of Pierre Bezukhov is impossible without It is through this peasant that the count comprehends the national character, its values ​​and priorities. Probably, it was after the meeting with Karataev that the path of Bezukhov the Decembrist began.

In search of truth

Both Andrei and Pierre throughout the whole novel are languidly looking for the meaning of life, following the paths of spiritual quest. They are either disappointed or resurrected again for new things. A comparative description of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov shows that the trials prepared for them by fate are, in general, very similar.

Prince Andrei realized his death as a return. His mission on this earth is over - ahead of infinity and eternity.

Instead of output

It should not be forgotten that Tolstoy's original intention was to write a novel about the Decembrist. In the very first drafts, the main character was already called Pierre, and his wife was Natasha. But it turned out that without an excursion into the war of 1812, nothing would be clear, and then it became obvious that it was necessary to start from 1805. So it turned out a wonderful book - "War and Peace".

And her heroes - Pierre and Andrei Bolkonsky - stand before us as the best representatives of that time. Their love for the Motherland is active. In them, Lev Nikolayevich embodied his attitude to life: you need to live fully, naturally and simply, then it will work out honestly. You can and should make mistakes, drop everything and start again. But peace is spiritual death.

The description of the spiritual quest of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov in the novel "War and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy is given a lot of space. The multifaceted content of the work made it possible to define its genre as an epic novel. It reflects important historical events, the fate of people of different classes throughout the whole era. Along with global problems, the writer pays great attention to the experiences, victories and defeats of his favorite heroes. Watching their fate, the reader learns to analyze their actions, achieve their goals, and choose the right path.

The life path of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov is difficult and thorny. Their fates help convey to the reader one of the main ideas of the story. L. N. Tolstoy believes that in order to be truly honest, one must “torn, get confused, fight, make mistakes, start and quit and start again, and always fight and lose.” That's what friends do. The painful searches of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov are aimed at finding the meaning of their existence.

The path to yourself Andrei Bolkonsky

Andrei Bolkonsky is rich, handsome, married to a charming woman. What makes him give up a successful career and a quiet, secure life? Bolkonsky is trying to find his destiny.

At the beginning of the book, this is a man who dreams of fame, popular love and exploits. “I love nothing but glory, human love. Death, injury, loss of family, nothing scares me,” he says. His ideal is the great Napoleon. In order to resemble his idol, the proud and ambitious prince becomes a military man, performs feats. Insight comes suddenly. The wounded Andrei Bolkonsky, seeing the high sky of Austerlitz, realizes that his goals were empty and worthless.

Leaving the service and returning, Prince Andrei seeks to correct his mistakes. Evil fate decides otherwise. After the death of his wife, a period of depression and despondency begins in Bolkonsky's life. A conversation with Pierre makes him look at life differently.

Bolkonsky again strives to be useful not only to his family, but also to the Fatherland. Engaging in public affairs briefly captivates the hero. The meeting with Natasha Rostova opens one's eyes to the false nature of Speransky. The meaning of life is love for Natasha. Again dreams, again plans and again disappointment. Family pride did not allow Prince Andrei to forgive the fatal mistake of his future wife. The wedding was upset, hopes for happiness were dispelled.

Again, Bolkonsky settled in Bogucharovo, deciding to take up the upbringing of his son and the arrangement of his estate. The Patriotic War of 1812 awakened the best qualities in the hero. Love for the Motherland and hatred for the invaders make them return to the service and devote their lives to the Fatherland.

Having found the true meaning of his existence, the main character becomes a different person. In his soul there is no more room for conceited thoughts and selfishness.

The simple happiness of Pierre Bezukhov

The path of searching for Bolkonsky and Bezukhov is described throughout the novel. The author does not immediately lead the characters to the cherished goal. Finding happiness was not easy for Pierre either.

The young Count Bezukhov, unlike his friend, is guided by the dictates of his heart in his actions.

In the first chapters of the work we have before us a naive, kind, frivolous young man. Weakness and gullibility make Pierre vulnerable, make him commit rash acts.

Pierre Bezukhov, like Andrei Bolkonsky, dreams of the future, admires Napoleon, tries to find his life path. Through trial and error, the hero achieves the desired goal.

One of the main misconceptions of the inexperienced Pierre was his marriage to the seductive Helen Kuragina. The deceived Pierre feels pain, resentment, annoyance as a result of this marriage. Having lost his family, having lost hope for personal happiness, Pierre tries to find himself in Freemasonry. He sincerely believes that his active work will be useful to society. The ideas of brotherhood, equality, justice inspire the young man. He is trying to bring them to life: he alleviates the fate of the peasants, orders the construction of free schools and hospitals. “And only now, when I ... try to live for others, only now I understand all the happiness of life,” he says to a friend. But his orders remain unfulfilled, the Masons brothers turn out to be deceitful and greedy.

In the novel War and Peace, Bolkonsky and Pierre constantly have to start all over again.

The turning point for Pierre Bezukhov comes with the outbreak of World War II. He, like Prince Bolkonsky, is inspired by patriotic ideas. With his own money he forms a regiment, is at the forefront during the battle of Borodino.

Having decided to kill Napoleon, Pierre Bezukhov commits a series of frivolous acts and is captured by the French. Months spent in captivity completely change the count's outlook. Under the influence of a simple peasant Platon Karataev, he understands that the meaning of human life is to satisfy simple needs. “A person should be happy,” says Pierre, who has returned from captivity.

Having understood himself, Pierre Bezukhov began to better understand those around him. He unmistakably chooses the right path, finds true love and family.

common goal

I would like to finish the essay on the topic “The Spiritual Searches of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov” with the words of the author: “Calmness is spiritual meanness.” The heroes dear to the writer do not know peace, they are in search of the right path in life. The desire to honestly and dignifiedly fulfill a duty and benefit society unites Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov, makes them so different in character.

Artwork test

Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky are among the favorite heroes of L. Tolstoy. They are highly educated, smart, independent in their judgments, acutely feel falsehood and vulgarity, and are generally close in spirit. "Opposites complement each other," said the ancients. Pierre and Andrey are interested together. Andrei can only be frank with Pierre. He pours out his soul and trusts only him. And Pierre is able to trust only Andrei, whom he respects infinitely. But these heroes think differently, their worldviews are completely different. If Andrei is a rationalist, that is, his reason prevails over feelings, then Bezukhov is a spontaneous nature, capable of keenly feeling and experiencing. They have different life experiences. So in the salon A.P. Sherer Andrey reminds of a bored Onegin, who was disgusted by secular living rooms, Bolkonsky, having a lot of life experience, despises the audience. Pierre, naively, still reveres salon guests.

Andrei differs from Pierre in his sober, statesmanlike mind, practical tenacity, the ability to bring the intended matter to the end, restraint, self-discipline and composure. And most importantly - willpower and firmness of character.

Pierre is characterized by deep reflections and doubts in search of the meaning of life. His life path is complex and tortuous. At first, under the influence of youth and the environment, he makes many mistakes: he leads a reckless life of a secular reveler and loafer, allows Prince Kuragin to rob himself and marry the frivolous beauty Helen. Pierre shoots himself in a duel with Dolokhov, breaks with his wife, disappoints in life. He hates the widely recognized lies of secular society and he understands the need to fight.

Andrei and Pierre are active natures, they are constantly looking for the meaning of life. Due to the polarity of characters, views on life, these heroes go through different life paths. The paths of their spiritual quest are also different. But it should be noted that some events in their lives are identical, the difference lies only in the order in which they are placed in the time in which they fall.

While Andrei is looking for Napoleonic glory in the war, the future Count Bezukhov, not knowing where to put his energy, amuses himself in the company of Dolokhov and Kuragin, spending time in revelry and entertainment.

At this time, Pierre's position in the world completely changed. Having received wealth and a title, he acquired the favor and respect of the world. Intoxicated with triumph, he married the most beautiful and stupid woman in the world - Helen Kuragina. Later, he angrily threw to her: "Where you are, there is debauchery and evil."

At one time, Andrei also unsuccessfully married. Let's remember why he was in such a hurry to go to war. Is it only because of the disgusting light? No. He was unhappy in family life. The "rare external charm" of his wife quickly got tired of the prince, because he felt her inner emptiness.

Like Andrey, Pierre quickly realized his mistake, but in this case no one was hurt, except for Dolokhov, whom Pierre wounded in a duel. Realizing all the depravity and senselessness of a past life, Pierre went into Freemasonry with a strong desire for spiritual rebirth. It seemed to him that he had found his meaning in life. And there was a fair amount of truth in that.

Pierre longed for activity and decided to alleviate the fate of the serfs. Naively thinking that he helped them, Pierre felt happy because he had fulfilled his duty. He said: "When I live, at least try to live for others, I begin to understand the happiness of life." This conclusion became the main thing for him for the rest of his life, although he later became disillusioned with both Freemasonry and his economic activities.

Pierre, who learned the meaning of life, was in captivity, helped his friend Andrei to be reborn, supported him in difficult times. Under the influence of Pierre and Natasha, Prince Andrei returned to life. His active nature needed scope, and Bolkonsky enthusiastically took part in the work of the Speransky commission. Later, realizing that she was useless for the people, Prince Andrei became disillusioned with state activities, like Pierre in Freemasonry.

Love for Natasha saved Andrei from a new attack of hypochondria, especially since before that he did not know true love. But Andrei's happiness with Natasha turned out to be short-lived. After breaking up with her, the prince was finally convinced of the impossibility of personal well-being, and this feeling prompted Andrei to go to the front.

It was there that Bolkonsky finally understood the purpose of man on earth. He realized that it is necessary to live, helping and sympathizing with people, to bring them the maximum benefit. It is a pity that Prince Andrei did not have time to put this idea into practice: death crossed out all his plans ... But Pierre, who survived and enriched his life experience, picked up the baton. In contact with the people, Pierre realized himself as a part of this people, part of their spiritual strength. Platon Karataev taught Pierre to appreciate life in all its manifestations, to love people like himself.

The life paths of Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky are typical for the best part of the noble youth of that time. It was from people like Pierre, in my opinion, that the Decembrist movement was formed.

Once in his youth, L. Tolstoy took an oath; "In order to live honestly, one must tear, get confused, fight," make mistakes, start and quit again, and start again, and quit again, and always fight and lose. And calmness is spiritual vulgarity. "The beloved heroes of L. Tolstoy lived their lives exactly as the author dreamed about it. These people remained true to themselves, their conscience and true to their Motherland to the end.

Comparative characteristics of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov (option 2)

Why are Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky among Leo Tolstoy's favorite characters? After all, the natures of these characters are completely different. Already in the salon of A. Scherer, Andrei resembles a bored Onegin, who was disgusted by secular living rooms. If Pierre naively reveres the salon guests, then Bolkonsky, having great life experience, despises the audience. Andrei differs from Pierre in his sober, statesmanlike mind, practical tenacity, the ability to bring the intended matter to the end, restraint, self-discipline and composure. And most importantly - willpower and firmness of character. However, it would be wrong to say that these heroes have nothing in common, because they have a lot in common.
They are keenly aware of falsehood and vulgarity, they are highly educated, intelligent, independent in their judgments and generally close in spirit. “Opposites complement each other,” said the ancients. And with this I fully agree. Pierre and Andrey are interested together. Andrei can only be frank with Pierre. He pours out his soul and trusts only him. And Pierre is able to trust only Andrei, whom he respects infinitely. But these heroes think differently, their worldviews are completely different. If Andrei is a rationalist, that is, his mind prevails over feelings, then Bezukhov is a spontaneous nature, capable of keenly feeling and experiencing. Pierre is characterized by deep reflections and doubts in search of the meaning of life. His life path is complex and tortuous. At first, under the influence of youth and the environment, he makes many mistakes: he leads a reckless life of a secular reveler and loafer, allows Prince Kuragin to rob himself and marry the frivolous beauty Helen. Pierre shoots himself in a duel with Dolokhov, breaks with his wife, is disappointed in life. He hates the widely recognized lies of secular society and he understands the need to fight.
Andrei and Pierre are active natures, they are constantly looking for the meaning of life. Due to the polarity of characters, views on life, these heroes go through different life paths. The paths of their spiritual quest are also different. But it should be noted that some events in their lives are identical, the difference lies only in the order in which they are placed in the time in which they fall. While Andrei is looking for Napoleonic glory in the war, the future Count Bezukhov, not knowing where to put his energy, amuses himself in the company of Dolokhov and Kuragin, spending time in revelry and entertainment.
At this time, Bolkonsky's life is undergoing big changes. Disillusioned with Napoleon, Prince Andrei, shocked by the death of his wife, falls into melancholy, deciding that he should live only for himself and his family, he is no longer interested in world fame.
Meanwhile, Pierre's position in the world changes completely. Having received wealth and a title, he acquires the favor and respect of the world. Intoxicated with triumph, he marries the most beautiful and stupid woman in the world - Helen Kuragina. Later he will tell her: "Where you are, there is debauchery and evil." At one time, Andrei also unsuccessfully married. Let's remember why he was in such a hurry to go to war. Is it only because of the disgusting light? No. He was unhappy in family life. The “rare external charm” of his wife quickly got tired of the prince, because he feels her inner emptiness.
Like Andrey, Pierre quickly realized his mistake, but in this case no one was hurt, except for Dolokhov, whom Pierre wounded in a duel. Realizing all the depravity and senselessness of a past life, Pierre goes into Freemasonry with a strong desire for spiritual rebirth. It seems to him that he has found his meaning in life. And there is a fair amount of truth in this. Pierre craves activity and decides to alleviate the fate of the serfs. Naively thinking that he helped them, Pierre feels happy because he has fulfilled his duty. He says: "When I live, at least try to live for others, I begin to understand the happiness of life." This conclusion will become the main thing for him for the rest of his life, although he will be disappointed both in Freemasonry and in his economic activity.
Pierre, who learned the meaning of life, was in captivity, helped his friend Andrei to be reborn, supported him in difficult times. Under the influence of Pierre and Natasha, Prince Andrei returned to life. His active nature needed scope, and Bolkonsky enthusiastically took part in the work of the Speransky commission. Later, realizing that she was useless for the people, Prince Andrei would be disappointed in state activities, like Pierre in Freemasonry. Love for Natasha will save Andrei from a new attack of hypochondria, especially since before that he did not know true love. But Andrei's happiness with Natasha turned out to be short-lived. After breaking up with her, the prince finally became convinced of the impossibility of personal well-being, and this feeling prompted Andrei to go to the front. It is there that Bolkonsky finally understands the purpose of man on earth. He realizes that it is necessary to live, helping and sympathizing with people, bringing them the maximum benefit. It is a pity that Prince Andrei did not have time to put this idea into practice: death crosses out all his plans ... But Pierre, who survived and enriched his life experience, picks up the baton.
In contact with the people, Pierre realizes himself as a part of this people, part of their spiritual strength. This is what makes him related to ordinary people. Platon Karataev taught Pierre to appreciate life in all its manifestations, to love people like himself. The life paths of Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky are typical for the best part of the noble youth of that time. It was from such people as Pierre, in my opinion, that the Decembrists were formed. These people remained faithful to their homeland. Once in his youth, Leo Tolstoy took an oath: “To live honestly, you have to tear, get confused, fight, make mistakes, start and quit again, and start again, and quit again, and always fight and lose. And peace is spiritual vulgarity.”
It seems to me that the beloved heroes of L. Tolstoy lived their lives exactly as the author dreamed about it. They remained true to themselves and their conscience to the end. And let time pass, one generation replaces another, but no matter what, the works of Leo Tolstoy will always be remembered, because they reveal questions of morality, they contain answers to many questions that have always worried people. In general, Leo Nikolayevich Tolstoy deservedly be called our teacher.

Comparative characteristics of Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov (3rd option)

The characters have different views, characters, demeanor. But, with many differences, the heroes of the work have a lot in common. Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov are smart people who have received an excellent education. They are close to each other in spirit, since both are independent in their judgments and thoughts.

Adrey and Pierre are very frank in their conversations, and on some topics they can only talk with each other, because they find understanding with each other, even having completely different worldviews. Andrei Bolkonsky Pierre Bezukhov In the salon of A. Scherer, Andrei behaves apathetically, secular society inspired him with disgust. despises those gathered here. Pierre, out of naivety, shows great respect for the salon guests. Andrei is a rationalist, that is, his mind prevails over feelings. Bezukhov is a spontaneous nature, capable of keenly feeling and experiencing.

He is characterized by deep thoughts and doubts in search of the meaning of life. Andrey is looking for Napoleonic glory in the war Bezukhov, not knowing where to put his energy, has fun in the company of Dolokhov and Kuragin, spending time in revelry and entertainment. Andrei unsuccessfully married, was unhappy in family life, so he feels her inner emptiness.

Disappointed in Napoleon, shocked by the death of his wife, Prince Andrei falls into melancholy. He decides for himself that he should live only for himself and his family, he is no longer interested in world fame. Having received wealth and a title, Pierre acquires the favor and respect of the world. Intoxicated with triumph, he marries the most beautiful and stupid woman in the world - Helen Kuragina. Bolkonsky took part in the work of the Speransky commission with great enthusiasm. Later, realizing that it was useless for the people, Prince Andrei would be disappointed in state activities, like Pierre in Freemasonry.

Realizing all the depravity and senselessness of a past life, Pierre goes into Freemasonry with a strong desire for spiritual rebirth. It seems to him that he has found his meaning in life. And there is a fair amount of truth in this. At the front, Bolkonsky finally understands the purpose of man on earth. He realizes that one must live by helping and sympathizing with people, benefiting humanity. The war of 1812, and especially the captivity and meeting with Platon Karataev, changed Bezukhov's life, showing him the true meaning of life.

Karataev taught Pierre to appreciate life in all its manifestations, to love people like himself.

Nesterova I.A. Comparative characteristics of Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky // Encyclopedia of the Nesterovs

Artistic images of Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky in the novel "War and Peace".

The novel "War and Peace" was written by L.N. Tolstoy in 1869. The book was a resounding success. Soon it was translated into European languages.

The work immediately aroused admiration among the writer's contemporaries.

N.N. Strakhov wrote:

In such great works as "War and Peace", the true essence and sublimity of art is most clearly revealed ...

At the same time, the epic novel by L.N. Tolstoy is a unique historical source. Here, the fates of historical figures are subtly intertwined: Napoleon, Kutuzov, Alexander the First and fictional heroes.

Among the characters created by the writer's imagination, the most significant are Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky. They both belong to the high society. Andrei Bolkonsky was born into a wealthy noble family. Father - a former general-in-chief, lived without getting out on his estate. Prince Andrei was brought up in a strict environment, received a good education. He was "... of small stature, a very handsome young man with certain dry features." Pierre outwardly differed from his friend. Bezukhov was "a massive, fat young man with a cropped head, wearing glasses ...". Pierre is the illegitimate son of the famous Catherine's nobleman. Unlike Prince Andrei, he was brought up abroad. It is obvious to the reader that L.N. Tolstoy contrasts the image of Bolkonsky and Bezukhov. A massive Pierre and a short handsome prince.

Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, unlike Pierre Bezukhov, feels confident in high society. He knew how to behave in high society. In all the behavior of Bolkonsky, arrogance and contempt for those around him were felt. “He, apparently, all those who were in the living room were not only familiar, but already tired so much that it was very boring for him to look at them and listen to them. Of all the faces that bored him, the face he seemed to be the most tired of his pretty wife. With a grimace that spoiled his beautiful face, he turned away from her ... "At the same time, Pierre Bezukhov was enjoying the high society. All people seemed to him kind and bright. He tries to see only the good in them. So Pierre believes in the sincerity of Helen's love, despite the outright falsehood. He perceives the fawning of the princesses and Prince Vasily as sincere kindness. The flattery of those around him after receiving the inheritance is not obvious to him. Previously, he did not notice ill will, but now he does not see lies. Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, on the contrary, has long studied lies and perceives them as an integral part of secular life.

The speech of the characters is very remarkable. So Andrei Bolkonsky speaks slowly with obvious arrogance. Only with close people he takes off his mask: "... seeing Pierre's smiling face, he smiled unexpectedly - a kind and pleasant smile." Bolkonsky's speech changes depending on who he is talking to. In remarks to representatives of high society, arrogance is felt, his speech does not change when communicating with soldiers. However, he speaks with great respect with Kutuzov. In remarks with his wife, his voice sounds annoyed. Unlike Prince Andrei, Pierre always speaks passionately, his speech is emotional. He says what he thinks: “I argue everything with your husband; I don’t understand why he wants to go to war,” said Pierre, without any hesitation (so common in the relationship of a young man to a young woman) turning to the princess.

The circle of communication of the characters and the circle of their communication are also different. At first, Pierre leads a wild life, participates in carousing at Dolokhov's. However, after the duel, excited by the possibility of murder, Pierre becomes a Freemason. He builds schools and hospitals for the peasants, immerses himself in literature. In general, he leads a very, very measured lifestyle. However, all the time he is surrounded by liars and flatterers. After the departure of Prince Bolkonsky, Bezukhov remains alone among those who are strangers to him, whom he does not accept. The wife does not love him. Helen and Prince Vasily only want his money. It seems that in Freemasonry he found salvation, but, alas, the order consists of the same people that abhor him.

Prince Andrei is alone in his own way, surrounded by those who do not understand him. The wife is only interested in embroidery and spreading gossip. All his acquaintances are useless and empty people. But unlike Pierre, Bolkonsky has a source of support - a sister and a father. Pierre is completely alone.

In the army, Bolkonsky finds himself surrounded by people who do not command his respect. The prince directed his extraordinary mind to achieve glory. The first step towards this is the development of a battle plan, which, according to Bolkonsky, will lead to victory. And then, with a banner in his hands, the prince accomplishes the feat that he aspired to: “But before he finished these words, Prince Andrei, feeling tears of shame and anger rising to his throat, was already jumping off his horse and running to the banner.

Guys, go ahead! he shouted childishly.

"Here it is!" thought Prince Andrei, grabbing the staff of the banner and listening with pleasure to the whistle of bullets, obviously directed precisely against him. Several soldiers fell.

Hooray! - shouted Prince Andrei, barely holding the heavy banner in his hands, and ran forward with undoubted confidence that the whole battalion would run after him.

Indeed, he ran only a few paces alone. One, another soldier set off, and the whole battalion shouted "Hurrah!" ran ahead and overtook him."

The sky of Austerlitz reveals to the hero all the pettiness and illusory nature of his aspirations for glory. For Prince Andrei, there comes a time of painful reflections about the meaning of life. He tries to overcome the spiritual crisis by turning to the family and the household.

In a crisis of worldview, unlike Prince Bolkonsky, Pierre Bezukhov delves into philosophy, makes attempts to know life better. He believes that he can correct this imperfect world: "... this is what I know and know for sure, that the pleasure of doing this good is the only true happiness of life." However, his search for the meaning of life is tragic and painful. The isolation of Masonic ideas from real life, the understanding that lies and hypocrisy reign in this environment, plunges Pierre's soul into despair. It is noteworthy that the heroes somehow owe their spiritual rebirth to Natasha Rostova.

The most significant event in the spiritual development of both Pierre and Andrei Bolkonsky can be safely called the year 1812. Seized by a patriotic impulse, the heroes of L.N. Tolstoy tend to personally participate in the defense of the fatherland. So, Prince Andrei did not stay at the headquarters: with all his being he strove to be where the Russian soldiers decided the fate of the fatherland: "... if anything depended on the orders of the headquarters, then I would be there and make orders, but instead I I have the honor to serve here, in the regiment, with these gentlemen, and I believe that tomorrow will really depend on us, and not on them ... Success has never depended and will not depend either on position, or on weapons, or even from the number; and least of all from the position. The hero courageously realizes his duty. Just like Prince Andrei, he understands his connection with the fatherland. Deeply civilian, far from everything military, he found himself in the hottest point of the battle of Borodino. The hidden warmth of patriotism allowed him to enter the "family circle of the soldiers of the Raevsky battery." "Our master" so they began to call him here. L.N. Tolstoy emphasizes: in difficult times for Russia, his heroes feel the highest spiritual uplift.

A wound in the battle of Borodino brings Bolkonsky mental and physical suffering. Andrei changes his outlook on life and the world in general. After being wounded, he becomes kinder, more tolerant and simpler. In anticipation of death, he finds peace and harmony with the whole world.

Pierre Bezukhov also goes through pain and suffering. Hunger, cold and fear help him gain a simple and wise outlook on life. Just like Prince Andrei, he acquires a sense of harmony with the world of people. However, unlike Bolkonsky, Pierre's inner state is closer to life, more natural. In the post-war life, he “matches” his being and the being of other people without any effort. This is how natural the union of Pierre and Natasha Rostova is, this is a harmonious unity of feeling and reason.

The images of Pierre Bezukhov and Andrei Bolkonsky have so much in common, but despite this, the characters are completely different. Heroes L.N. Tolstoy express his own views on life. Lev Nikolaevich showed that every person should look for the meaning of life. Let his judgments be erroneous, but he has a goal. We see that L.N. Tolstoy sympathizes with his heroes. The author does not directly condemn their mistakes, but clearly shows their consequences. He proves. That every person should follow the highest goal, but at the same time remember that there is a family and society.

What are the similarities between Andrei Balkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov in Leo Tolstoy's novel "War and Peace", and what are their differences? and got the best answer

Answer from Dorota[guru]
The aforementioned problematics of "War and Peace" was in line with Dostoevsky's reflections on the hero, who is looking for what is good, "what is evil." a cultural type" striving for "beautifulness", but never able to achieve it. In this inability to acquire "beautifulness", Dostoevsky sees a trait of a person symptomatic of the era, whose consciousness is doomed by historical circumstances to defend itself in the "chaos of concepts". Interpretation of this qualitative difference Dostoevsky outlines his “cultural type” in the draft “For the Preface” in the March rough notes to “The Teenager” in March 1875. Bolkonsky, Bezukhov and Levin are considered here by Dostoevsky as heroes of “petty vanity”: they are able to be spiritually reborn under the influence of a positive example or under The tragedy of the underground excludes for Dostoevsky's hero the possibility of such a fundamental spiritual change.
Depicting his heroes, the author did not at all embellish or idealize them: he endowed Pierre and Andrei with contradictory features, advantages and disadvantages. In their image, he presented ordinary people who are able to be both strong and weak at certain moments of their lives, but who are able to overcome the internal struggle and independently rise above lies and everyday life, to be spiritually reborn and find their calling in life. Their paths are different, but at the same time they have a lot in common. And, in particular, the similarity lies in their spiritual ordeals, in the struggle. Pierre has his own weakness of character, cowardice, excessive gullibility and ideological impassability. Andrei Bolkonsky - with pride, arrogance, ambition and illusory aspirations for glory.
Pierre Bezukhov is one of the central, most attractive heroes of the novel. His image, like the image of Andrei Bolkonsky, is depicted in constant dynamics. The writer focuses on the almost childish gullibility, kindness and sincerity of the thoughts of his hero, and at first Pierre is presented as a confused, passive, absolutely inactive young man. Pierre obviously does not fit into the false society of flatterers and careerists present in the Scherer salon. He behaves in an inappropriate manner for social events, even being somewhat aggressive towards all other visitors. For this reason, the appearance of Pierre is puzzling to many, and his straightforward statements are outright fears. In addition, Bezukhov is indifferent to money and luxury, he is disinterested and, in spite of everything, keenly feels the boundary between innocent jokes and dangerous games that can cripple someone's life.
The difference in the paths of moral search in the fates of A. Bolkonsky, P. Bezukhov and N. Rostov

Answer from Yergey Smirnov[guru]
The similarity is precisely physiological, primary and secondary sexual characteristics, and differences in characters ...

Answer from Irishka[guru]
Duel and the Woman Countess Sophie Razberglein

Answer from REPORTER[guru]
Balkonsky is sitting on the balcony, and Bolkonsky is dead.

Answer from Alexandra Bodrova[guru]
They are looking for the meaning of life, themselves, but they are disappointed in what they find. Balkonsky in the army. Pierre regrets that he married Helen, and that he became a Freemason.