The Duel

Summary

The novel "The Duel" by Alexander Kuprin tells the story of a young officer, Georgy Romashov, serving in a provincial garrison. Romashov becomes disillusioned with the army and its harsh rules, as well as with his own service. He falls in love with his comrade's wife, Shurochka Nikolaeva, leading to a conflict with her husband, Captain Nikolaev. As a result, Romashov challenges Nikolaev to a duel but ultimately refuses to shoot at the last moment. The novel concludes with Romashov deciding to leave the army, realizing that his place in life is not in military service.