In this section of the epic "War and Peace," one of the crucial developments is Pierre's personal development as a Freemason. When he gets connected to the secret organization, he is able to articulate how he wishes to "purify himself" after his failed marriage to Helene and after nearly killing a man in a duel.
The message that Pierre gleans from freemasonry is the newfound objective "to go out into the world and live for others." Pierre then begins to work closely on his estates and make the attempt to improve the lot of the serfs, treating them kindly and starting a school.
Pierre also reunites with his closest friend Andrei, who believes he too has failed in his lack of compassion for his fellow human beings. He is especially driven by guilt after Lise dies in childbirth. Pierre and Andrei debate philosophical and ethical issues, agreeing the "our lives must have a purpose." Clearly, the two characters are searching for their souls and a meaning for their lives.
In a fateful meeting with Natasha, Andrei's life changes. They fall in love, with the most splendid scene being the lavish ball. Natasha is clearly full of "the gift of happiness" and is thrilled when Andrei proposes. But, fatefully, he must postpone the marriage for a year while he conducts family business in Switzerland.
In consultation with his freemason mentor, Pierre confesses that he still is not happy. The wise adviser suggests that "perhaps you are changing your world and not changing yourself."
The message that Pierre gleans from freemasonry is the newfound objective "to go out into the world and live for others." Pierre then begins to work closely on his estates and make the attempt to improve the lot of the serfs, treating them kindly and starting a school.
Pierre also reunites with his closest friend Andrei, who believes he too has failed in his lack of compassion for his fellow human beings. He is especially driven by guilt after Lise dies in childbirth. Pierre and Andrei debate philosophical and ethical issues, agreeing the "our lives must have a purpose." Clearly, the two characters are searching for their souls and a meaning for their lives.
In a fateful meeting with Natasha, Andrei's life changes. They fall in love, with the most splendid scene being the lavish ball. Natasha is clearly full of "the gift of happiness" and is thrilled when Andrei proposes. But, fatefully, he must postpone the marriage for a year while he conducts family business in Switzerland.
In consultation with his freemason mentor, Pierre confesses that he still is not happy. The wise adviser suggests that "perhaps you are changing your world and not changing yourself."
