In order to portray the pretentious countenance of the upper class, Tolstoy often has the characters employ French expressions. I identified and defined a number of the French idioms and additionally provided and defined vocabulary words lifted from the reading. We then studied the context of the vocabulary words as used in the text. As Ivan's health deteriorates , we discussed his wife's callous reaction to her husband's illness as well as the aloof cold approach of the doctors Ivan visits. In this regard, we explored the definition and use of irony as the doctors and Ivan's wife now treat him with the same aloof, indifferent attitude that has characterized Ivan's demeanor as a court magistrate as he imposes sentences . Ironically, this cold treatment infuriates Ivan even though he has treated others the same way for years.. For homework, begin study guide questions ;read next chapter.