Leo Tolstoy

Definition

Leo Tolstoy was a renowned Russian author, best known for his epic novels 'War and Peace' and 'Anna Karenina', which are considered masterpieces of realist literature. His works explore complex themes of morality, society, and the human condition, making him a central figure in the study of realism and its representation of everyday life and social issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tolstoy's 'War and Peace' intertwines historical events with the personal lives of its characters, reflecting on the impact of war on society and individual lives.
2. In 'Anna Karenina', Tolstoy examines the constraints of society on personal happiness, using the tragic story of its titular character to critique social norms.
3. Tolstoy's writing style incorporates detailed descriptions and psychological insight, allowing readers to deeply understand characters' motivations and inner conflicts.
4. His later works reflect a significant shift towards philosophical and spiritual themes, emphasizing non-violence and moral responsibility in society.
5. Tolstoy's influence extends beyond literature; his thoughts on ethics and nonviolent resistance inspired figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

Review Questions

• How does Tolstoy's portrayal of characters in 'War and Peace' exemplify the principles of realism?
  • In 'War and Peace', Tolstoy portrays a diverse array of characters from different social classes, each with their own struggles and desires. This focus on ordinary people dealing with complex emotions and moral dilemmas exemplifies realism, as it reflects true-to-life experiences rather than idealized or romanticized portrayals. The interplay between personal stories and historical events also highlights how individual lives are affected by broader societal changes.
• Discuss the social critiques presented in 'Anna Karenina' and how they reflect Tolstoy's views on morality.
  • In 'Anna Karenina', Tolstoy critiques the rigid social structures of 19th-century Russian society, particularly regarding marriage, fidelity, and individual happiness. Through Anna’s tragic story, he illustrates the consequences of societal expectations on personal choice. The novel serves as a moral commentary on how societal pressures can lead to personal despair, reflecting Tolstoy's belief in the importance of authenticity and moral integrity.
• Evaluate the impact of Tolstoy's later philosophical writings on contemporary discussions about ethics and nonviolence.
  • Tolstoy's later philosophical writings, particularly his advocacy for nonviolence and moral responsibility, have had a profound impact on contemporary discussions about ethics. His ideas about love, compassion, and the importance of living a moral life resonate with modern movements advocating for social justice. Influential figures like Mahatma Gandhi adopted Tolstoy's principles of nonviolent resistance in their struggles for freedom, demonstrating how Tolstoy's thoughts transcend literature to inspire real-world change.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society as it is, focusing on ordinary characters and realistic situations.

Naturalism:

An extension of realism that emphasizes a more scientific and detached approach to literature, often highlighting the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior.

Moral Philosophy: The branch of philosophy concerned with questions about morality, including concepts of right and wrong, virtue, and justice, which are prevalent in Tolstoy's works.