War and Peace

Andrew and Pierre arrive at Bald Hills, where they encounter Princess Mary's 'God's folk' - religious pilgrims she secretly shelters despite her father's disapproval. The scene reveals the stark differences between the siblings: Andrew is cynical and mocking, while Mary is devoutly religious and compassionate. When they meet the pilgrims - an old woman named Pelagéya and a young person disguised as a man named Ivánushka - the contrast becomes even sharper. Pelagéya tells of miraculous icons and healing powers she's witnessed, speaking with absolute faith. Pierre, initially curious, becomes skeptical and suggests the miracles are fraudulent. Andrew adds cruel jokes about the Virgin Mary being 'promoted to general.' Their mockery devastates Pelagéya, who sees their words as blasphemy and prepares to leave in shame. The chapter exposes how the same event can be viewed through completely different lenses - faith versus skepticism, compassion versus cynicism. Mary stands caught between protecting her guests and managing her brother's cruelty. Pierre, seeing the pilgrim's genuine distress, quickly apologizes and tries to make amends. The scene illustrates how intellectual pride can wound simple faith, and how families must navigate fundamental differences in belief. It also shows the class divide - the educated nobles casually dismiss what the working-class pilgrims hold sacred. The chapter asks whether skepticism always equals wisdom, and whether faith deserves respect even when we don't share it.