Epilogue Summary and Analysis

Natasha and Pierre Bezuhov marry in 1813, and live in Petersburg. Count Rostov dies that same year, and the family is broken up.

Nikolai is beset by creditors who never hounded Count Rostov while he was alive. With his familial responsibilities, Nikolai feels that he cannot return to the army. He borrows 30,000 rubles from his brother-in-law, Pierre, to pay the most pressing creditors.

Sonya takes care of Countess Rostov and helps Nikolai hide their financial troubles from his mother. Nikolai sees no end to his troubles in sight.

Princess Maria visits the Rostovs and is received coldly, especially by Nikolai, so she resolves not to visit again. Nikolai, at his mother's insistence, goes to return her call, though, and they recognize their love for one another.

Maria and Nikolai marry in the autumn of 1813. Countess Rostov and Sonya move in with Maria...