Prison

Most of the novel takes place at the prison where Rubashov is taken after his arrest. Rubashov is given a small cell like most of the others. Rubashov is pleased that the cell is much cleaner and in better condition than the cell he was put into when he was arrested in Germany. Rubashov spends most of his time in the cell, but he is occasionally allowed out to walk in the yard or to have a shave. Rubashov uses a knocking code to speak to the prisoners on either side of him.

Germany

Rubashov was once sent to Germany to confront a Party member who had changed the wording of a Party pamphlet without permission. Rubashov was forced to kick the man named Richard out of the Party, leaving the young man devastated on the street.

Belgium

Rubashov was sent to Belgium years before his arrest to...