household, where Stepan Arkadyevitch (Stiva) has caused a scandal by having an affair with the family governess. The household is in chaos as Darya Alexandrovna has declared she cannot continue living with her husband after discovering his infidelity. Stepan's internal conflict is revealed as he wakes up in his study and reflects on his failing marriage and the grim reality of his actions. As the narrative unfolds, it illustrates the emotional turmoil affecting both Stepan and Darya as they navigate their strained relationship amidst societal expectations and personal desires. This opening segment effectively sets the tone for the intricate exploration of love and betrayal that characterizes the rest of the novel. (This is an automatically generated summary.)