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Part 2, Chapter 17
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Anna Karenina, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Marriage and Family Life
Adultery and Jealousy
Physical Activity and Movement
Society and Class
Farming and Rural Life
Compassion and Forgiveness
Summary
Analysis
Ever since the affair with Anna, Vronsky’s external life has continued in exactly the same fashion as before: he spends time with his regiment, and they continue to love and respect him. All of Petersburg high society knows about the affair, and they are waiting with bated breath for the right moment for mudslinging against Anna to begin.
Though Vronsky’s inner life has exploded in his affair with Anna, externally, there are no repercussions; indeed, his regiment officers, if anything, respect him more. Though everyone in Petersburg knows about the scandal, nothing has been said aloud yet, and the worst consequences will be for Anna, not Vronsky.
Themes
Vronsky’s mother is initially pleased with the liaison, but is disappointed when she realizes that the passion is interfering with Vronsky’s political ambitions. Vronsky’s passion for Anna does not, however, interfere with his passion for horses, and he eagerly anticipates an upcoming race.
Vronsky’s mother disapproves of the affair on the grounds of ambition and politics, not morals. Vronsky’s other great passion in life, horses, provides a counterbalance to his romantic life.
Themes
