The Idiot — Part I — Chapter VII

After Myshkin’s frank talk, the Epanchin women banter warmly with him. Pressed about Aglaya, Myshkin calls her frighteningly beautiful and compares her, in type, to Nastasia Philipovna. He admits having seen Nastasia’s portrait, which Gania had brought, and is sent to fetch it.

In the study, a flustered Gania, fearing to face the ladies, asks Myshkin to secretly deliver an unsealed note to Aglaya. Myshkin reluctantly agrees. On the way back he studies Nastasia’s portrait, moved by its mix of pride, suffering, and simplicity, and then meets Aglaya and hands over the note.

In the drawing room, Mrs. Epanchin judges the portrait; Adelaida calls Nastasia’s beauty a “power,” while Aglaya shows disdain. Mrs. Epanchin summons Gania and pointedly asks about his supposed marriage; he denies it, embarrassed under Aglaya’s cool gaze. Before leaving, Aglaya asks Myshkin to write in her album and dictates, “I never condescend to bargain.”

Privately, Aglaya gives Myshkin Gania’s note to read. It begs her to say “break off the whole thing,” promising he will renounce a lucrative match if she shows sympathy. Aglaya scorns his demand for guarantees, says he is “fishing” for hopes, and instructs Myshkin to return the letter without reply, warning him to beware of Gania.

Outside, Gania furiously accuses Myshkin of betrayal until learning Aglaya herself returned the note and let Myshkin read it. When Gania’s abuse escalates, Myshkin firmly states he is no longer an “idiot” and will part ways if insulted again. Gania apologizes, hiding suspicion, and Myshkin agrees to continue and accompany him home.