Part 5, Chapters 16-21 Summary

Denisov's soldiers have had scarcely any food in a fortnight, and he goes to find some food in the transports for them. He is called a robber for his action because the food was intended for the infantry. Denisov feels demoralized, gets wounded, and retreats to the hospital. Rostov visits Denisov in the hospital, which is a disorderly mess. Rostov is appalled by what he sees; men being treated like dogs, dying here and there. Denisov's wound, small as it is, still has not healed. Denisov doesn't seem pleased to see Rostov.

Denisov has lost interest in everything except his quarrel with the officials. He wants a pardon more than anything. Rostov visits Boris, who seems annoyed with his visit. Boris has become an important person and has no time for trifles. Rostov speaks to Boris about Denisov's affair...