1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Which aspects of the novel did you connect with the most? Are there any aspects that didn’t resonate with you?
• What was your impression of Count Rostov? What parts of his character did you connect to? Did you find him sympathetic?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Consider the book’s exploration of friendship. Do you have friendships like those that the count develops over the course of the novel?
• Do you agree with the novel’s contention that freedom of a certain kind is possible even when one is physically confined? Why or why not?
• The novel depicts change as inevitable, both personally and societally. How do you respond to change? Do you find it easy to adapt?
• Consider the count’s efforts to preserve elements of the past. Have you ever taken similar steps? Did you find them fulfilling?

3. Societal and Cultural Context

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

• How does the novel explore the role of women in 19th-century Russia? How does this compare to the status of women in contemporary societies?
• Class is explored as a major theme in the novel.