Summary

In chapter 20 a newspaper article appears on the bulletin wall at the scientific institute. The article champions the Party’s commitment to scientific research and progress, while criticizing those Soviet scientists who side with “foreign idealists” (666). Viktor recognizes himself in this latter characterization. When he returns home, Nadya tells him of the German encirclement in Stalingrad.

In chapter 21 Viktor’s colleagues urge him to repent publicly for his resistance to the Party. That evening he begins to write a letter apologizing for his errors, just as his friends advised him. The next day Lyudmila tells Viktor that Chepyzhin has returned to Moscow. After Viktor leaves, Lyudmila is left feeling neglected by Viktor. She hears a knock at the door and opens it to find Yevgenia. Lyudmila tells her that Tolya has died.

In chapter 22 Lyudmila and Yevgenia discuss the circumstances surrounding...