Anna Karenina

Anna Karenina

by

Leo Tolstoy

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Anna Karenina: Part 4, Chapter 16 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
The Princess begins to discuss the logistics of the marriage, which feels strange and almost painful in the ecstatic moment. Levin thinks they should be wed immediately, but the Princess insists on proper preparation, and everyone begins discussing arrangements.
Levin has difficulty dealing with mundane details when he is swept up by his emotions. His overwhelming love for Kitty makes him unable to care about trivial, concrete details; later, when his brother is dying, he also cannot concentrate on pragmatic logistics.
Themes
Marriage and Family Life Theme Icon
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Levin has decided that even though it’s painful for him, he must tell Kitty that he is not a virgin and that he is not a believer. He discusses both of these with the Prince, and with the father’s permission, he gives Kitty a diary that explains both of these matters. Kitty accepts him, though tearfully, and Levin feels even more unworthy of her.
Levin’s written confession to Kitty parallels Tolstoy’s own confession to his wife: he supposedly had his wife read his diary, which exposed all the sins of his youth. Yet it is also a sign of deep trust and openness. Levin and Kitty trust each other and bond at a level beyond words.
Themes
Marriage and Family Life Theme Icon
Society and Class Theme Icon