War and Peace · Character
Mávra Kuzmínichna
- Minor
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 241
Mávra Kuzmínichna has the sturdy, unvarnished air of someone who has spent a lifetime keeping a household in order. Her check kerchief and brisk attention lend her a plain warmth, though a startled invocation of faith can escape her when the world turns frightening.
- Gender
- female
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 241
- Books
- 1
The former housekeeper remains in Moscow amid the confusion and opens the household gate to wounded men, responding to their plight with a prayerful exclamation. She later catches at the count’s hand and kisses his shoulder, a gesture of affection and old familiarity. In a quieter domestic moment, she carries a small banknote rolled inside a check kerchief and flicks dust from a clavichord. Her life in the household is marked by practical care, loyalty, and a deep-rooted sense of belonging.
Description
Mávra Kuzmínichna is an older woman, her legs described as old and worn with age. She wears a check kerchief and carries another rolled into a small bundle, with a paper banknote tucked inside. Her appearance is plain and work-ready, and her movements have the purposeful familiarity of someone at home among household duties. The text does not specify her facial features, hair, eyes, coloring, or build.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
Natásha Rostóvacompassionate household companions
Natásha and the Rostóv family’s former housekeeper act together to bring wounded soldiers into the family home. Mávra helps Natásha care for the wounded and advises her about obtaining permission.
Prince Andrew Bolkónskihost and wounded guest
Mavra brings Andrew’s party into the Rostov yard and offers him shelter when she learns that the family is leaving its house.
- V
Vasílichhousehold colleagues
They remain in Moscow to look after the Rostov household; Mavra checks on Vasílich and reproaches the servants for leaving him overworked.
- YO
Young Officercompassionate benefactor and distant kinsman of her employers
When the young officer arrives too late to see Count Rostov and asks for help, Mavra gives him money from her own funds and feels motherly tenderness toward him.
Story so far
BOOK 1War and Peace
Appearances
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