Nesvítski

Also known as Nesvítski's, Prince Nesvítski, Nesvitsky

Major
First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 29

He seems to bring warmth and laughter wherever he goes: a huge, red-faced officer whose moist eyes and kindly smile make even his exuberance feel companionable. Yet the ease of his laughter can give way to sudden alarm, as if the world keeps catching him unprepared.

Gender: male
First appears: Book 1 · Ch. 29
Books: 1

Nesvítski enters as a tall, extravagantly stout staff officer whose handsome, moist-eyed face is almost always ready to laugh. His good humor and generous physicality make him a familiar, sociable presence among fellow officers, even in the disarray of military life. At moments of danger, the laughter gives way to agitation and fear, revealing a man more humane and vulnerable than imposing. Across his appearances, his geniality remains his defining feature.

Description

Nesvítski is tall and extremely stout, with a red complexion and a handsome face made kindly by its habitual smile. His eyes are notably moist, his lips move as he chews, and his plump hands and perspiring skin make his bulk especially vivid. He wears the uniform of a staff officer, though the text does not give precise colors or details of its cut. His expression is usually laughing and open, but can become visibly agitated or alarmed.

Connections

Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals

Pierre Bezúkhovduel second and adviser
Nesvítski acts as Pierre’s second, urges him to reconsider the duel, and takes him home afterward.
Prince Andrew Bolkónskicomrades and roommates
Nesvítski shares quarters with Andrew and attempts to comfort him when he is upset by news of the Austrian defeat. Andrew pushes him away in the heat of his anger, but their familiarity and companionship are clear.
Z
Zherkóvfellow officers and companions
The two officers are together laughing in the corridor before Zherkóv makes an ill-timed joke about Mack's defeat. Nesvítski later laughs with Andrew, suggesting easy camaraderie with Zherkóv despite the reprimand that follows.