Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy, was a Russian writer regarded as one of the greatest and most influential authors of all time. He received nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature every year from 1902 to 1906 and for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901, 1902, and 1909.
Born to an aristocratic Russian family in 1828, Tolstoy's notable works include the novels War and Peace (1869) and Anna Karenina (1878), often cited as pinnacles of realist fiction, and two of the greatest books of all time. He first achieved literary acclaim in his twenties with his semi-autobiographical trilogy, Childhood, Boyhood, and Youth (1852–1856), and Sevastopol Sketches (1855), based upon his experiences in the Crimean War. His fiction includes dozens of short stories such as "After the Ball" (1911), and several novellas such as The Death of Ivan Ilyich (1886), Family Happiness (1859) and Hadji Murad (1912). He also wrote plays and essays concerning philosophical, moral and religious themes.
In the 1870s, Tolstoy experienced a profound moral crisis, followed by what he regarded as an equally profound spiritual awakening, as outlined in his non-fiction work Confession (1882). His literal interpretation of the ethical teachings of Jesus, centering on the Sermon on the Mount, caused him to become a fervent Christian anarchist and pacifist. His ideas on nonviolent resistance, expressed in such works as The Kingdom of God Is Within You (1894), had a profound impact on such pivotal 20th-century figures as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr. and Ludwig Wittgenstein. He also became a dedicated advocate of Georgism, the economic philosophy of Henry George, which he incorporated into his writing, particularly in his novel Resurrection (1899).
Tolstoy received praise from countless authors and critics, both during his lifetime and after. Virginia Woolf called Tolstoy "the greatest of all novelists", while Gary Saul Morson referred to War and Peace as the greatest of all novels. Tolstoy never having won a Nobel Prize during his lifetime was a major Nobel Prize controversy, and continues to remain one.

Tolstoy was born at Yasnaya Polyana, a family estate 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) southwest of Tula, and 200 kilometres (120 mi) south of Moscow. He was the fourth of five children of Count Nikolai Ilyich Tolstoy (1794–1837), a veteran of the Patriotic War of 1812, and Princess Mariya Tolstaya (née Volkonskaya; 1790–1830). His mother died when he was two and his father when he was nine. Tolstoy and his siblings were brought up by relatives. In 1844, he began studying law and oriental languages at Kazan University, where teachers described him as "both unable and unwilling to learn". Tolstoy left the university in the middle of his studies, returned to Yasnaya Polyana and then spent much time in Moscow, Tula and Saint Petersburg, leading a lax and leisurely lifestyle. He began writing during this period, including his first novel Childhood, a fictitious account of his own youth, which was published in 1852. In 1851, after running up heavy gambling debts, he went with his older brother to the Caucasus and joined the army. Tolstoy served as a young artillery officer during the Crimean War and was in Sevastopol during the 11-month-long siege of Sevastopol in 1854–55, including the Battle of the Chernaya. During the war he was recognised for his courage and promoted to lieutenant. He was appalled by the number of deaths involved in warfare, and left the army after the end of the Crimean War.
His experience in the army, and two trips around Europe in 1857 and 1860–61 converted Tolstoy from a dissolute and privileged society author to a non-violent and spiritual anarchist. Others who followed the same path were Alexander Herzen, Mikhail Bakunin and Peter Kropotkin. During his 1857 visit, Tolstoy witnessed a public execution in Paris, a traumatic experience that marked the rest of his life. In a letter to his friend Vasily Botkin, Tolstoy wrote: "The truth is that the State is a conspiracy designed not only to exploit, but above all to corrupt its citizens ... Henceforth, I shall never serve any government anywhere." Tolstoy's concept of non-violence or ahimsa was bolstered when he read a German version of the Tirukkural. He later instilled the concept in Mahatma Gandhi through his "A Letter to a Hindu" when young Gandhi corresponded with him seeking his advice.
His European trip in 1860–61 shaped both his political and literary development when he met Victor Hugo. Tolstoy read Hugo's newly finished Les Misérables. The similar evocation of battle scenes in Hugo's novel and Tolstoy's War and Peace indicates this influence. Tolstoy's political philosophy was also influenced by a March 1861 visit to French anarchist Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, then living in exile under an assumed name in Brussels. Tolstoy reviewed Proudhon's forthcoming publication, La Guerre et la Paix ("War and Peace" in French), and later used the title for his masterpiece. The two men also discussed education, as Tolstoy wrote in his educational notebooks: "If I recount this conversation with Proudhon, it is to show that, in my personal experience, he was the only man who understood the significance of education and of the printing press in our time."
Fired by enthusiasm, Tolstoy returned to Yasnaya Polyana and founded 13 schools for the children of Russia's peasants, who had just been emancipated from serfdom in 1861. Tolstoy described the schools' principles in his 1862 essay "The School at Yasnaya Polyana". His educational experiments were short-lived, partly due to harassment by the Tsarist secret police. However, as a direct forerunner to A.S. Neill's Summerhill School, the school at Yasnaya Polyana can justifiably be claimed the first example of a coherent theory of democratic education.

Let's look at Tolstoy's some of famous novels;

"War and Peace" is a monumental work by Leo Tolstoy, and it covers a wide range of themes, characters, and historical events.
Here are some key points about the novel:

1. Historical Background: The novel is set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars and spans the years 1805 to 1812. It provides a detailed account of the impact of war on Russian society.
2. Diverse Characters: Tolstoy introduces a vast array of characters from different social classes, including aristocrats, soldiers, and peasants. The central characters include Pierre Bezukhov, Natasha Rostova, and Andrei Bolkonsky.
3. Philosophical Exploration: Throughout the novel, Tolstoy interweaves philosophical reflections on history, fate, free will, and the nature of power. He interrupts the narrative with essays expressing his views on these topics.
4. Love and Relationships: The novel explores various romantic relationships, including the ill-fated love affair between Natasha Rostova and Anatole Kuragin, and the evolving relationship between Pierre Bezukhov and Natasha.
5. Battle Scenes: Tolstoy vividly depicts the brutality and chaos of war through detailed battle scenes. The Battle of Borodino is a particularly notable and dramatic episode in the novel.
6. Historical Figures: The novel includes interactions with historical figures, such as Napoleon Bonaparte and Tsar Alexander I, adding a layer of historical realism to the narrative.
7. Tolstoy's Theory of History: Tolstoy challenges conventional historical narratives and argues that major events are shaped by the collective actions of countless individuals rather than the decisions of a few powerful leaders.
8. Character Development: The characters undergo significant transformations throughout the novel, reflecting Tolstoy's exploration of personal growth, morality, and the search for meaning in life.

"War and Peace" is a complex and multi-layered work that combines historical fiction with philosophical musings. It remains a classic in world literature and is celebrated for its profound insights into the human condition.


"Anna Karenina" is another masterpiece by Leo Tolstoy, exploring themes of love, morality, and societal expectations.
Here are some key points about the novel:

1. Anna's Adulterous Affair: The central plot revolves around Anna Karenina, a married woman who falls in love with Count Alexei Vronsky. Their affair becomes a scandal in Russian high society, leading to social ostracism and personal turmoil.
2. Parallel Love Stories: The novel also follows the parallel love story of Konstantin Dmitrievich Levin, a landowner, and Kitty Shcherbatskaya. Levin's storyline provides a contrast to Anna's tragic romance, exploring themes of domesticity and rural life.
3. Societal Expectations: Tolstoy delves into the constraints and expectations of Russian society in the 19th century, particularly regarding marriage, fidelity, and the role of women.
4. Moral Dilemmas: The characters grapple with moral dilemmas, and the novel explores the consequences of individual choices. Anna's internal struggles with guilt and societal judgment are central to the narrative.
5. Obligation and Duty: The novel examines the conflict between personal desires and social obligations, highlighting the tensions between individual freedom and societal norms.
6. Tragic Downfall: Anna's affair and societal condemnation lead to her tragic downfall. The novel portrays the psychological and emotional toll of her choices, culminating in a dramatic and heartbreaking climax.
7. Religious and Philosophical Themes: Tolstoy incorporates religious and philosophical elements into the narrative, particularly through the character of Levin, who grapples with questions of faith, purpose, and the meaning of life.
8. Symbolism of the Railway: The motif of the railway is significant in the novel, symbolizing the inexorable march of progress and the forces that propel characters toward their destinies.

"Anna Karenina" is celebrated for its psychological depth, intricate characterizations, and its exploration of complex social and moral issues. It remains a classic in world literature and is considered one of Tolstoy's greatest achievements.


"The Death of Ivan Ilyich" is a novella by Leo Tolstoy that explores profound themes related to life, death, and the search for meaning.
Here are some key points about the novella:

1. Ivan Ilyich Golovin: The story revolves around Ivan Ilyich Golovin, a high-ranking judge in the Russian judicial system. He leads a conventional life, conforming to societal expectations and pursuing a career for social status.
2. Superficial Existence: Ivan's life is characterized by a pursuit of social approval and adherence to societal norms. He lives what appears to be a successful and comfortable life, but it lacks genuine meaning and fulfillment.
3. Onset of Illness: Ivan's life takes a turn when he develops a mysterious illness. Despite consulting various doctors, the nature of his ailment remains a source of anxiety and despair.
4. Existential Crisis: As Ivan grapples with his illness and the prospect of death, he undergoes a profound existential crisis. He begins to question the meaning of life, the value of his past choices, and the nature of happiness.
5. Isolation and Alienation: Ivan experiences increasing isolation as he confronts his mortality. His colleagues and friends show a lack of genuine empathy, contributing to his sense of alienation.
6. Spiritual Awakening: In his moments of suffering and reflection, Ivan begins to seek answers to existential questions. He explores the possibility of spiritual solace and a deeper understanding of life.
7. Tolstoy's Critique of Society: Through Ivan's story, Tolstoy critiques the superficiality of societal values and the consequences of living a life driven by societal expectations rather than authentic personal values.
8. The Simple Life of Gerasim: Gerasim, Ivan's servant, becomes a symbol of simplicity, compassion, and authenticity. His genuine care and lack of fear in the face of death contrast sharply with the attitudes of the more socially polished characters.
9. The Death Scene: The novella culminates in Ivan's death scene, where he confronts the inevitable and seeks a sense of peace and reconciliation with his own mortality.

"The Death of Ivan Ilyich" is a poignant exploration of the human condition, the nature of existence, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. It reflects Tolstoy's philosophical insights and his critique of societal norms.


"Resurrection" (Воскресение) is a novel by Leo Tolstoy that addresses themes of moral redemption, social justice, and the spiritual transformation of its characters.
Here are some key points about the novel:

1. Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhlyudov: The central character, Nekhlyudov, is a Russian nobleman who serves on a jury and encounters a woman named Maslova. Nekhlyudov recognizes Maslova as a woman he had seduced and abandoned years earlier.
2. Maslova's Fate: Maslova has since become a prisoner, convicted of murder. Nekhlyudov is deeply troubled by the realization that he played a role in her downfall and is determined to seek redemption by helping her.
3. Jury Duty: The novel begins with Nekhlyudov serving on a jury where he comes face to face with Maslova. This encounter becomes a catalyst for the moral and spiritual journey that follows.
4. Social Injustice: Tolstoy uses the novel to critique the Russian legal system, depicting its flaws and injustices. The portrayal of Maslova's trial highlights the arbitrary and often unfair nature of the legal proceedings.
5. Nekhlyudov's Redemption Quest: Driven by guilt and a desire for redemption, Nekhlyudov decides to take responsibility for Maslova's fate. He becomes actively involved in her life, seeking ways to help her both legally and spiritually.
6. Social Reform: Tolstoy uses the novel to advocate for social reform and critique the disparities between the privileged class and the disenfranchised. Nekhlyudov's journey reflects a broader call for societal transformation.
7. Spiritual Awakening: As Nekhlyudov becomes more involved in Maslova's life, he undergoes a spiritual awakening. The novel explores themes of forgiveness, love, and the transformative power of compassion.
8. Christian Teachings: Tolstoy incorporates Christian teachings and principles into the narrative, emphasizing the importance of love, compassion, and moral responsibility in the pursuit of a meaningful life.
9. The Journey to Siberia: The story takes Nekhlyudov and Maslova to Siberia, where they encounter various challenges and confront the harsh realities of life. This journey becomes a metaphor for their inner transformation.

"Resurrection" is a novel that delves into questions of morality, justice, and the potential for personal and societal redemption. Through its characters and narrative, Tolstoy explores the complexities of human relationships and the possibility of spiritual renewal.


"The Cossacks" (Казаки) is a novella written by Leo Tolstoy, and it was published in 1863.
Here are some key points about the novella:

1. Olenin's Journey: The story follows the protagonist, Dmitri Olenin, a young Russian aristocrat who decides to join the army and seek adventure in the Caucasus Mountains, far away from the constraints of his privileged life in Moscow.
2. Cossack Village: Olenin settles in a Cossack village in the Caucasus, where he encounters a different way of life compared to the one he is accustomed to. The Cossack community is portrayed as close-knit, with its own traditions, customs, and a connection to the natural environment.
3. Nature and Wilderness: The novella vividly describes the natural beauty of the Caucasus Mountains. Tolstoy uses the setting to explore the contrast between the untamed wilderness and the more structured, urban life Olenin is used to.
4. Olenin's Romantic Interests: In the Cossack village, Olenin becomes infatuated with a local Cossack girl named Maryanka. His romantic feelings and the cultural differences between them become central elements of the story.
5. Themes of Isolation and Alienation: Despite being physically surrounded by people, Olenin experiences a sense of isolation and alienation. His internal conflicts reflect Tolstoy's exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning.
6. Quest for Identity: Olenin grapples with questions of identity and purpose. His experiences in the Caucasus prompt him to reevaluate his values and priorities, leading to a deeper understanding of himself.
7. Cultural Clash: The novella delves into the clash between Olenin's aristocratic background and the simpler, more traditional lifestyle of the Cossacks. This cultural tension adds depth to the narrative.
8. Tolstoyan Philosophy: "The Cossacks" reflects Tolstoy's evolving philosophical ideas, particularly his interest in the simplicity of rural life, the connection to nature, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence.
9. Inner Transformation: Olenin undergoes a significant inner transformation during his time in the Cossack village. The novella explores the impact of new experiences and relationships on personal growth and self-discovery.

"The Cossacks" is a relatively early work by Tolstoy, and it provides insight into his evolving literary style and philosophical outlook. The novella explores themes that would later become more fully developed in his later and more renowned works.


"The Kreutzer Sonata" (Крейцерова соната) is a novella by Leo Tolstoy, written in 1889.
Here are some key points about the novella:

1. Narrative Frame: The story is presented as the confession of Pozdnyshev, a man who is reflecting on the events that led him to commit murder. The confession is given to a fellow traveler during a train journey.
2. Jealousy and Obsession: The novella revolves around Pozdnyshev's intense jealousy and obsession with his wife, whom he suspects of infidelity. His jealousy is fueled by his belief in the corrupting influence of sexuality.
3. The Kreutzer Sonata: The title refers to Beethoven's "Kreutzer Sonata," a piece of music that plays a significant role in the narrative. Pozdnyshev believes that the passionate and sensual nature of the music has a corrupting influence on those who listen to it, and he connects it to his feelings of jealousy.
4. Arranged Marriage: Pozdnyshev's marriage was arranged, and he believes that this lack of love and choice in his union contributed to the degradation of the relationship.
5. Sexual Morality: The novella delves into Tolstoy's views on sexual morality, exploring the consequences of unbridled lust and the societal expectations placed on individuals in matters of sex and marriage.
6. Critique of Society: Through Pozdnyshev's confession, Tolstoy offers a critique of societal norms and values, particularly those related to marriage, sexuality, and the institution of the family.
7. Narrative of Isolation: Pozdnyshev describes his growing sense of isolation within his marriage, believing that the institution itself leads to suffering and moral degradation.
8. Religious and Moral Themes: Tolstoy weaves in religious and moral themes, reflecting his later emphasis on Christian principles and his rejection of the excesses of the flesh.
9. The Murder: The climax of the novella is Pozdnyshev's confession of murdering his wife in a fit of jealous rage, driven by his extreme views on morality and his perception of her behavior.
10. Condemnation of Carnal Desires: "The Kreutzer Sonata" reflects Tolstoy's evolving views on the destructive nature of carnal desires and the potential for spiritual salvation through renunciation of the flesh.

This novella is known for its exploration of jealousy, sexual morality, and the consequences of rigid societal norms. Tolstoy uses the narrative to engage with his philosophical ideas about human nature and the pursuit of moral and spiritual purity.

References;

1.  "Tolstoy". Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary.
2.  Burt, Daniel S. (2009). The Literary 100, Revised Edition: A Ranking of the Most Influential Novelists, Playwrights, and Poets of All Time. Facts On File. pp. 13–16.
3.  Popova, Maria (30 January 2012). "The Greatest Books of All Time, as Voted by 125 Famous Authors". The Atlantic. Retrieved 28 December 2023.
4.  "Leo Tolstoy". Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved 4 September 2018.
5.  Beard, Mary (5 November 2013). "Facing death with Tolstoy". The New Yorker.
6. Hellman, Martin E. "Resist Not Evil". Stanford University. Retrieved 6 September 2023. Originally published in Gandhi, Arun, ed. (1994). World Without Violence. M. K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence.
7.  King, Martin Luther Jr.; Carson, Clayborne; et al. (2005). The Papers of Martin Luther King, Jr. Vol. V: Threshold of a New Decade, January 1959 – December 1960. University of California Press. pp. 149, 269, 248. ISBN 978-0-520-24239-5.
8.  Monk, Ray (1991). Ludwig Wittgenstein: the duty of genius. New York: Penguin Books. p. 115 et passim. ISBN 978-0-14-015995-0.
9. Tolstoy, Leo (2023). "First Recollections". New England Review. 44 (2): 180–182. ISSN 2161-9131.
10. Morson, Gary Saul (2019). "The greatest of all novels". The New Criterion. Retrieved 28 December 2023.