In ‘Leo Tolstoy: The Complete Novels (The Greatest Novelists of All Time – Book 4), ‘ readers are invited to immerse themselves in the profound narratives and intricate character studies that define Tolstoy’s literary genius. This collection brings together his most celebrated works, including ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina, ‘ showcasing Tolstoy’s masterful use of realism, psychological insight, and moral exploration. The extensive range of themes such as love, conflict, and the search for meaning resonates within the broader context of 19th-century Russian literature, reflecting both the social upheaval of the time and the author’s moral philosophy. Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910), a revered figure in the literary canon, was not only a novelist but also a social reformer and philosopher. His tumultuous life, marked by aristocratic privilege and profound spiritual crises, shaped his existential inquiries and ethical considerations. Tolstoy’s experiences in the Russian military and his eventual conversion to pacifism and Christian anarchism deeply influenced his depiction of human motives and social ethics in his works. This anthology is essential for both scholars and general readers seeking to understand the depth of Tolstoy’s thought and artistry. Each novel serves as a window into the human condition, making this collection not just a reading experience, but an exploration into humanity itself.
Over de auteur
Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, known in English as Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910), was a Russian writer who is regarded as one of the greatest authors of all time. Born to an aristocratic Russian family in 1828, he is best known for two of his novels, ‘War and Peace’ (1869) and ‘Anna Karenina’ (1877), which are commonly cited as pinnacles of realist fiction. His works are celebrated for their exploration of human experience, their emphasis on morality, and their unprecedented attention to detail. Tolstoy’s literary craft transcended the novel form; he also wrote short stories, essays, and plays. His later life was marked by his moral and spiritual beliefs, which infused his writing and led to his development of a unique Christian anarchism. The compilation ‘Leo Tolstoy: The Complete Novels’ preserves Tolstoy’s substantial contribution to literature, housing works ranging from his early autobiographical trilogy to his later, more philosophically driven texts. His profound influence on literature and on the hearts and minds of readers and writers alike continues to be felt today. Tolstoy’s writing style is characterized by complex characters, realistic dialogue, and meticulous detail. His ethical beliefs about non-violent resistance, expressed in works such as ‘The Kingdom of God is Within You’ (1894), had a profound impact on prominent 20th-century figures, including Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.