War and Peace · Character
Pétya Rostov
Also known as Pyotr Ilyich Rostov, Petr Ilyich Rostov, Pétya
- Supporting
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 10
A plump, rosy-faced Russian boy who grows from about fifteen to sixteen, with a broad youthful face, snub nose, full red lips, merry black eyes, and soft facial down just beginning to appear on his cheeks. His hair is carefully arranged and his collar set to make him look older; in his later scenes he wears a young officer's uniform and greatcoat. He carries himself with eager, self-conscious martial pride, though his flushed cheeks and youthful features remain unmistakably boyish.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- 9
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 10
- Books
- 1
Description
A plump, rosy-faced Russian boy who grows from about fifteen to sixteen, with a broad youthful face, snub nose, full red lips, merry black eyes, and soft facial down just beginning to appear on his cheeks. His hair is carefully arranged and his collar set to make him look older; in his later scenes he wears a young officer's uniform and greatcoat. He carries himself with eager, self-conscious martial pride, though his flushed cheeks and youthful features remain unmistakably boyish.
Connections
Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals
- CI
Count Ilyá Andréevich Rostóvfather and son
The count is overcome with grief when he receives news that Pétya has been killed.
- CN
Countess Natalya Rostóvamother and son
Pétya’s death shatters the countess, who initially refuses to believe the news and becomes listless after her mourning.
Natásha Rostóvasister and younger brother
Natásha summons Pétya to carry her downstairs, and he eagerly gives her a ride on his back. His excited interruption during her singing startles her, prompting an impulsive outburst.
Nicholas Rostóvolder brother and younger brother
Nicholas is protective of his thirteen-year-old brother, though Pétya eagerly joins him and Natásha on the hunt.
Pierre Bezúkhovconflicting source relationships
Pierre sees Pétya’s body on the day he is rescued, an event that remains among the few clear memories of his release.
- EL
Esaul Lováyski the Thirdjunior officer and senior Cossack officer
Pétya accompanies Denísov and Lováyski on reconnaissance and seeks to participate in the detachment’s operations, looking to the experienced officers as heroic models.
- FI
Fëdor Ivánovich Dólokhovconflicting source relationships
Pétya idolizes Dólokhov’s courage and insists on accompanying him into the French camp. After they return safely, Pétya embraces him and declares his love and admiration; Dólokhov responds with a kiss.
- TS
Tíkhon Shcherbátyfellow members of Denísov’s detachment
Pétya watches Tíkhon’s exploits with fascination and laughter, then briefly feels uneasy when he realizes Tíkhon has killed a man. Tíkhon’s easy familiarity with the band contrasts with Pétya’s youthful eagerness to prove himself.
- VD
Vasíli Dmítrich Denísovold family friend and beloved companion
Denísov warmly welcomes Pétya, whom he has known before the campaign, and allows him to remain with the detachment despite concern for his safety. Pétya openly admires and affectionately kisses him.
- VB
Vincent Bossecaptor and compassionate protector
Pétya is moved by the captured French drummer boy’s youth and fear. He arranges for him to be fed, approaches him gently, reassures him, and presses his hand in sympathy.
- L
Likhachëvyoung officer and helpful Cossack
Likhachëv sharpens Pétya’s saber and speaks kindly with him during the night before the raid.
Story so far
BOOK 1War and Peace
Appearances
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