Resurrection

Nekhlyudov sits quietly in the “jurymen’s room,” overwhelmed by guilt while the other jurors converse casually. When the jury is called back, he feels as though he himself is on trial.

During the examination of witnesses, the court hearts from Kitayeva, the brothel owner, who speaks confidently and flatteringly about Maslova. Her comments, and Maslova’s brief smile, stir a mix of disgust and pity in Nekhlyudov.

He watches Maslova, believing she has recognized him, but she does not react. His internal conflict deepens, likening Maslova to a wounded bird he wishes to finish off quickly and forget.

The trial drags on as the prosecution insists on reading lengthy medical reports about the state of Smelkov’s corpse. The jury listens to detailed and graphic descriptions of the external and internal examinations, which disgust Nekhlyudov and deepen his feelings of guilt. Despite the tedium, the public prosecutor demands the reading of every document to demonstrate his authority.

When the jury is finally allowed to view the physical evidence, including a diamond ring and sealed jars containing body parts, their reactions are casual and disengaged. The merchant jokes about the dead man’s finger size.