The Duel Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of The Duel?

Romashov, an officer, receives an invitation from Nicolayeff, whose wife's birthday is coming up. At the birthday party, it turns out that his wife is very charmed by Romashov. During the picnic in the forest, they seclude themselves from the rest of the party and on a bench they kiss each other. Another, jealous officer, who also has a crush on her, sneaks up on the couple. Sensing this, they flee, but the woman leaves behind her fan, on which Romashov has written a declaration of love. The jealous officer gives the fan to Nicolayeff, who then challenges Romashov to a duel. During the duel, the lover deliberately fires into the air and is shot. Based on the novel by Aleksandr Ivanovich Kuprin.

Maurice Maître's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on A. Lesnogorski (Lieutenant Romashov)'s journey. At the birthday party, it turns out that his wife is very charmed by Romashov.

How Does A. Lesnogorski (Lieutenant Romashov)'s Story End?

• A. Lesnogorski: A. Lesnogorski's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Z. Mamonova (Shurochka): Z. Mamonova's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Nikolai Vasilyev (Shurochka's husband, lieutenant Nikolayev): Nikolai Vasilyev's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is The Duel Based on a True Story?

Yes — The Duel draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Maurice Maître has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of The Duel Mean?

The ending of The Duel brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of A. Lesnogorski's story may not satisfy all audiences.