Leo Tolstoy

Definition

Leo Tolstoy was a Russian writer, philosopher, and social reformer, best known for his epic novels such as 'War and Peace' and 'Anna Karenina.' His views on art and morality deeply influenced modern thinking about the purpose of art, emphasizing its potential to convey human experiences and moral truths.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tolstoy argued that the primary purpose of art is to foster empathy and understanding among people, making it a powerful tool for social change.
2. In his essay 'What is Art?', Tolstoy critiques popular art forms of his time for their lack of genuine emotional expression, instead advocating for simplicity and sincerity in artistic works.
3. His belief in the moral value of art led him to pursue a form of creativity that emphasized ethical considerations, impacting his later writings and personal lifestyle.
4. Tolstoy viewed art as a reflection of truth, suggesting that genuine art should help individuals connect with their shared humanity.
5. His influence extended beyond literature into social activism, where he applied his philosophical beliefs about non-violence and compassion to address social issues.

Review Questions

• How did Leo Tolstoy’s views on the purpose of art challenge the prevailing artistic norms of his time?
  • Tolstoy's views on art rejected the ornate and superficial styles that dominated the artistic landscape of his time. Instead, he emphasized that true art should evoke genuine emotions and foster empathy among its audience. This perspective encouraged artists to create works that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also rich in moral substance and reflective of human experience.
• Evaluate the ways in which Tolstoy’s philosophy of art intersects with the concept of expression theory.
  • Tolstoy's philosophy aligns closely with expression theory, which posits that art is a form of emotional communication. He believed that authentic art should reflect the artist's feelings and experiences while also connecting with the audience's emotions. By prioritizing sincerity over aesthetic beauty, Tolstoy contributed to a deeper understanding of how art serves as a medium for shared human experience and emotional resonance.
• Critically analyze how Tolstoy's moral views influenced his understanding of the relationship between art and society.
  • Tolstoy's moral views profoundly shaped his understanding of the relationship between art and society. He saw art as a vehicle for conveying ethical truths, arguing that it should promote love, compassion, and social consciousness. His belief that artists have a responsibility to address moral issues in their work pushed for a transformative role of art in society, positioning it not just as entertainment but as a means to inspire social reform and improve human connections.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement focused on depicting everyday life and society in a truthful manner, often associated with Tolstoy's detailed portrayals of characters and settings.

Moral Philosophy: A branch of philosophy that examines what is right and wrong, which Tolstoy engaged with in his writings, advocating for a moral life grounded in love and compassion.

Art as Communication: The idea that art serves as a medium to communicate emotions and ideas between the artist and the audience, aligning with Tolstoy's belief in the societal role of art.