The Idiot — Part I — Chapter XI

Prince Myshkin withdraws to his room after the earlier scandal. Colia follows, defending Myshkin against notions of honor through violence and marveling at Nastasia Philipovna’s power over the household. Varia arrives, thanks Myshkin, and notes how Nastasia softened when he spoke, hinting that he has influence over her.

Gania unexpectedly enters, asks Myshkin’s forgiveness, and reconciles with him. He refuses reconciliation with Varia, who warns that marrying Nastasia for money will end badly. After Varia leaves agitated, Gania stays to justify himself and probes Myshkin’s opinion about the disgrace of such a marriage.

Myshkin calls the plan disgraceful and questions Gania’s confidence. Gania insists Nastasia will accept him and that he will control the money, claiming she was only mocking Rogojin. He alternates between self-contempt and bravado, revealing motives of ambition and wounded pride, and dreams of turning the dowry into a fortune to gain status and “originality.”

The conversation turns to General Ivolgin’s decline and tall tales, which Gania mocks. Gania teases Myshkin about being struck by Nastasia; Myshkin admits interest but denies love. Gania departs in good humor, predicting they will be either friends or enemies.

Colia returns with a sealed note from General Ivolgin, plainly a plea for money. Seeing Colia’s shame, Myshkin decides to visit the general immediately, intending to help, and leaves with Colia.