War and Peace · Character
Dokhtúrov
Also known as Dmitry Dokhturov, Dohktúrov, General Dohktúrov
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 36
He has the quiet, unshowy air of a man who listens before he speaks, his rounded figure and lifted brows giving even silence a thoughtful look. There is something reassuringly practical about him, as if the urgent noise around him can be sorted into clear decisions.
- Gender
- male
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 36
- Books
- 1
Dokhtúrov appears among the Russian commanders as a capable, attentive officer whose work is often carried by dispatches, orders, and the steady movement of troops rather than grand speeches. He rallies battalions in the rearguard and is later entrusted with command of the First Army. At the council before the battle of Borodino, he listens closely to Bennigsen’s proposal and agrees with it; later, while Kutúzov lingers with the main army, Dokhtúrov goes to Málo-Yaroslávets. His role is marked by practical service and a readiness to take responsibility.
Description
Dokhtúrov is described as a chubby little man, compact and softly rounded rather than imposing in stature. His most distinctive recorded expression is attentive: eyebrows raised as he listens, arms folded over his stomach. The text offers no reliable details about his hair, eyes, complexion, or particular uniform, so these should remain unspecified. His presence is practical and composed, a modest figure among the commanding officers.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals

Prince Andrew Bolkónskimessenger and commanding general
Prince Andrew carries dispatches from Dokhtúrov to Kutúzov after the battle, before being sent onward with a special dispatch to Brünn.
Story so far
BOOK 1War and Peace
Appearances
Meet Dokhtúrov in Bookworm
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