Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) was a Russian author and philosopher of the 19th century who left an indelible mark on literature and philosophy. Tolstoy delved into the profound themes of religion, philosophy, and the human condition in his works throughout his life. The novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina are considered his representative masterpieces.
Tolstoy was born at the estate of Yasnaya Polyana in 1828. He grew up under the care of relatives as he experienced the loss of his parents at an early age. At 16, he enrolled at Kazan University to study law but soon became disillusioned with the education system that stifled creative thinking, prompting him to quit.
Tolstoy’s literary endeavors began in his early years, driven by his interest in literature and the arts. He dedicated himself to writing and spent considerable time exploring his creative pursuits. As a teenager, he started keeping a diary in which he recorded his thoughts and experiences. These diaries played a significant role in nurturing his creativity and writing abilities. Later, his autobiographical trilogy, comprising Childhood, Boyhood, and Youth, was published, reflecting his formative years.
After the release of his first novel, Childhood, in 1852, Tolstoy continued to produce numerous works. However, it was not until War and Peace and Anna Karenina that he gained widespread recognition.
Leo Tolstoy embodied an earnest pursuit of truth and a profound exploration of the human condition. His writings resonate with readers worldwide, reminding us of the importance of introspection, compassion, and the search for meaning in our lives.
1. Who is Leo Tolstoy, according to paragraph 1?
2. How is Leo Tolstoy's background, according to paragraph 2?
3. How did Tolstoy's literary endeavors begin, according to paragraph 3?
4. What does the last paragraph say about Leo Tolstoy?
1. What is your opinion of Leo Tolstoy?
2. What kind of books do you enjoy reading? Why?
3. Would you publish an autobiography of your self? Why or why not?
4. How do books influence people and society? Explain.
Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) was a Russian author and philosopher of the 19th century who left an indelible mark on literature and philosophy. Tolstoy delved into the profound themes of religion, philosophy, and the human condition in his works throughout his life. The novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina are considered his representative masterpieces.
