War and Peace

Pierre’s large inheritance has changed the way he is treated by the members of high society. He has become one of the most sought-after young men in Saint Petersburg. The attention has affected him, and he now believes that the praise lavished on him is justified by his “exceptional kindness and extraordinary intelligence” (215) rather than his wealth. Prince Vasili positions himself as a close friend of Pierre. He provides guidance on how to manage the huge fortune that Pierre has inherited while siphoning money into his own bank account and scheming to take advantage of the newly moneyed young man. Vasili tries to match Pierre together with his daughter Helene. Pierre finds himself talking to Helene so often at parties that he begins to take particular notice of her. He feels as though they are destined to be married, even though he does not love her. Like most of their social circle, Pierre has heard rumors that Helene and her brother Anatole are involved in an incestuous relationship. He is uneasy but feels unable to extricate himself from the situation. Vasili grows tired of waiting for Pierre to propose to Helene, so he announces their engagement himself. After a great deal of social pressure, Pierre and Helene marry.