The Bear and the Nightingale

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of child abuse.

While Pyotr navigates the political intrigues of Moscow and makes an alliance with the Tatar emissary, Sasha becomes captivated by tales of Sergei Radonezhsky, a holy man who founded a monastery on Makovets Hill. Despite Pyotr’s skepticism, Sasha’s eagerness persuades him to allow his son to visit the monastery, the Trinity Lavra. Once at the monastery, Sasha is struck by its peace and simplicity. When he meets Sergei, the monk recognizes Sasha’s spiritual depth and yearning for purpose. Their conversation solidifies the already-pious Sasha’s decision to dedicate his life to God. Sergei invites Sasha to join the monastery.

Upon his return to Moscow, Sasha tells Pyotr and Kolya that he wants to become a monk. Kolya reacts with disbelief and horror, but Pyotr agrees to allow Sasha on two conditions: He must wait a year to reflect on his decision and relinquish any inheritance.

Ivan meets with his advisor, Aleksei, the Metropolitan of Moscow. Ivan’s daughter, Anna, is haunted by visions of what she thinks are demons, and he views her presence in the city as a potential scandal due to her “madness.” Aleksei warns Ivan of a possible challenger to his son Dmitrii’s succession: the young Prince Vladimir of Serpukhov, Ivan’s nephew.