In ‘A Letter to a Hindu, ‘ a curated anthology that intertwines the philosophical correspondences of Leo Tolstoy and M.K. Gandhi, readers are offered a profound exploration into themes of non-violence, civil disobedience, and the power of spiritual resistance. The collection not only showcases the rich diversity in literary style—ranging from the epistolary to the essayistic—but also underscores the significance of these texts within their historical and moral contexts. The inclusion of seminal works such as Tolstoy’s letter that inspired Gandhi’s non-violent movement presents an unparalleled opportunity to witness the philosophical dialogues that have shaped modern thought on peace and resistance. The contributing figures of Tolstoy and Gandhi come from markedly different cultural and geographical backgrounds, yet their convergence in this anthology highlights a shared vision for humanity. Both were pivotal figures in their respective historical and cultural movements—Tolstoy in the Christian anarchism and moral thought, Gandhi in the Indian independence struggle and his formulation of Satyagraha. Their interactions through letters create a rich tapestry that illustrates the global dialogue on resistance against injustice, making this collection a critical contribution to understanding the interconnectedness of liberation struggles around the world. This anthology is recommended for readers eager to delve into the philosophical and ethical discussions between two of the most influential figures in the history of non-violent resistance. ‘A Letter to a Hindu’ serves not only as a scholarly exploration of its themes but as an invitation to reflect on the universal questions of justice, power, and the human spirit’s capacity for empathy and action. It is a compelling read for anyone interested in the educational value of intercultural dialogue and the insights such conversations can bring to contemporary discussions on peace, resistance, and the moral responsibilities of individuals and societies.
Over de auteur
Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, known as Leo Tolstoy, was a towering figure in Russian literature and is widely considered one of the greatest novelists of all time. Born into Russian nobility on September 9, 1828, in Yasnaya Polyana, Tolstoy’s experiences with loss and educational endeavors profoundly shaped his philosophical and literary trajectory. His works are notable for their intricate character development, moral introspection, and detailed observations of 19th-century Russian life. Tolstoy’s literary mastery is exemplified in his epics, ‘War and Peace’ (1865–1869) and ‘Anna Karenina’ (1877). Beyond his novels, he also wrote compelling short stories, essays, and plays. His foray into the epistolary genre includes ‘A Letter to a Hindu’ (1908), wherein he expounds on non-violent resistance, reflecting his late-life turn to spiritual and ethical issues. In parallel with Mahatma Gandhi’s principles, Tolstoy’s advocacy for non-violence influenced political activism around the world. His didactic works, such as ‘The Kingdom of God Is Within You’ (1894), further illustrate his philosophical stance against the Orthodox Church and government, promoting instead Christian anarchism. Tolstoy’s literary style is marked by his use of realism, exploration of existential anxiety, and commentary on social injustices. He died on November 20, 1910, leaving a legacy of works that continue to provoke thought and emotion in an unending dialogue about the human condition.
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