Ment
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I had similar thoughts when reading the book – in the sense that Taras is a truly despicable character. Although he can't be called completely negative, despite his strange beliefs, disgusting statements, and actions, his Cossack activities, the fact that he fights for his homeland during this difficult time, somehow, even if not completely, compensates for his flaws.
Andrei is perceived in the opposite way. He is not loyal; he wavers, and he became a traitor not just ideologically, but actively, by joining the enemy's army. If he had simply helped his Polish girl, saved her from hunger, or done whatever else he was doing – that wouldn't be shameful; on the contrary, it would be completely right and worthy. But because of his momentary feelings and moods, he directly goes to war against those who love him, albeit in a very peculiar and specific way... This is a vile act.
In short, both are despicable. You can only sympathize with the unfortunate people who suffer from this war but do not participate in it.
Andrei is perceived in the opposite way. He is not loyal; he wavers, and he became a traitor not just ideologically, but actively, by joining the enemy's army. If he had simply helped his Polish girl, saved her from hunger, or done whatever else he was doing – that wouldn't be shameful; on the contrary, it would be completely right and worthy. But because of his momentary feelings and moods, he directly goes to war against those who love him, albeit in a very peculiar and specific way... This is a vile act.
In short, both are despicable. You can only sympathize with the unfortunate people who suffer from this war but do not participate in it.