Books matching: 19th century russia (setting)
11 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy is a novella that delves into the contemplation of death and the meaning of life through the lens of the protagonist, Ivan Ilyich. The story follows the journey of a high-level judge who discovers he has an incurable illness, leading him to question his life choices, relationships, and societal norms as he approaches his inevitable death. Tolstoy masterfully captures the psychological turmoil of a dying man and explores themes of suffering, decay, and the human struggle to come to terms with mortality.
The narrative skillfully portrays Ivan Ilyich's internal struggles, self-reflection, and existential crisis as he grapples with his impending death. Through a series of introspective moments, the reader is confronted with the stark reality of mortality and the protagonist's quest for redemption and understanding in the face of life's uncertainties.
1847 Inherits estate of Yasnaya Polyana. Recovering from gonorrhoea, draws up scheme for self-perfection. Leaves university without completing studies ‘on grounds of ill health and domestic circumstan... - #2
Save:Twenty-five-year-old Ivan narrates the story of his life, starting with a mysterious old man's death and an address that leads him to his past. Falling in love with Natasha, the daughter of a landowner, Ivan finds himself entangled in a web of love, betrayal, and family drama involving the conniving Prince Valkovsky. As the story unfolds, intense emotions, profound insights, and intricate relationships shape the characters' fates, revealing themes of love, suffering, and human nature that transcend time and culture.
- #3
Save:'The Grand Inquisitor' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a complex and philosophical novel that delves into themes of religion, philosophy, and the human condition. The book revolves around a gripping tale that explores the concept of free will through a dialogue between a Spanish Inquisitor and Jesus. The narrative is told through intense conversations and thought-provoking debates, particularly showcased in chapters like The Grand Inquisitor. The writing style is dense and profound, challenging readers with deep discussions on morality, faith, and societal norms.
‘You see, even here we can’t get by without a preface – a literary preface, that is, confound it!’ Ivan said, laughing. ‘And what kind of an author am I? Look, the action of my poem takes place in the... - #4
Save:'Childhood, Boyhood and Youth' by Leo Tolstoy is a semi-autobiographical trilogy that follows the life of the narrator, Nikolai, as he grows up in the Russian nobility. The first part, 'Childhood,' delves into Nikolai's early memories, family relationships, and education, while 'Boyhood' continues with his experiences in Moscow, dealing with family dynamics and his aspirations for the future. The final part, 'Youth,' explores Nikolai's transition into adolescence, his friendships, academic pursuits, and the challenges of young adulthood. Tolstoy's writing style offers deep psychological and sociological insights, with vivid descriptions of the natural world and minor characters that add depth to the narrative.
- #5
Save:Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy is a novel that delves into themes of redemption, social injustice, and personal growth. The story follows Prince Nekhlyudov, who recognizes a defendant in a trial as Katusha, a woman he seduced and abandoned years ago. As Nekhlyudov navigates the complexities of the legal system and societal norms, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and attempts to atone for his past mistakes. The narrative explores the harsh realities of the penal system, the impact of privilege, and the pursuit of forgiveness and redemption, all while reflecting Tolstoy's deep philosophical and moral convictions.
The writing style of Resurrection is described as a mix of social commentary, moral reflection, and character-driven storytelling. Tolstoy's exploration of human nature, societal issues, and the quest for personal growth is intertwined with vivid descriptions, emotional depth, and thought-provoking insights. The novel presents a rich tapestry of themes that resonate with readers, inviting them to contemplate the complexities of life, morality, and the pursuit of inner peace.
PART ONE ‘Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? ‘Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Unti... - #6
Save:'A Confession' by Leo Tolstoy is a deeply introspective and philosophical exploration of the author's journey towards faith and meaning in life. Through his candid reflections, Tolstoy delves into his struggles with existential questions, his doubts, and his ultimate search for purpose. The book is a unique blend of personal confession, spiritual exploration, and philosophical musings, offering readers a glimpse into Tolstoy's innermost thoughts and struggles with faith and reason.
I was christened and educated in the faith of the Orthodox Greek Church; I was taught it in my childhood, and I learned it in my youth. Nevertheless, at eighteen years of age, when I quit the universi... - #7
Save:The Landlady by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a novella that follows the story of Vassily Ordynov, a solitary young man who rents a room after inheriting some money. He becomes captivated by a beautiful young woman named Katerina and eventually becomes a lodger at the couple's house. As Ordynov learns about the bond between Katerina and the old man, the novella explores whether the two youths have a future together. The writing style of Dostoevsky in this novella is described as perplexing, challenging, and layered with numerous possible analyses, making it a thought-provoking read that keeps readers engaged till the end.
- #8
Save:Readers describe "Anna Karenina" as a complex novel that delves into the inner lives of its characters, particularly focusing on the tragic story of Anna Karenina and Count Vronsky's affair. The book also explores themes of love, society, morality, and faith, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Russia. Tolstoy's writing style is praised for its detailed descriptions, character development, and philosophical depth, making the reader question societal norms and human behavior.
The wife had discovered that the husband was carrying on an intrigue with a French girl, who had been a governess in their family, and she had announced to her husband that she could not go on living ... - #9
Save:Anton Chekhov's 'The Complete Short Novels' brings together five novellas showcasing his profound understanding of human nature and masterful storytelling. From the lyrical journey of a nine-year-old boy across the Russian steppe in "The Steppe" to the complex ironies in the personal life of a passive Moscow merchant in "Three Years," Chekhov's narratives delve into themes of loss, exploration, deception, and the struggle between ideals and realities. Each novella intricately weaves together human behavior and life situations, showcasing Chekhov's ability to create vivid characters and settings that resonate with readers.
on an early July morning a battered, springless britzka— one of those antediluvian britzkas now driven in Russia only by merchants’ agents, herdsmen, and poor priests—rolled out of the district town o... - #10
Save:Joseph Frank's 'Dostoevsky: A Writer in His Time' provides a comprehensive look into the life and works of Fyodor Dostoevsky, covering his upbringing, struggles with poverty and gambling addiction, travels abroad, and the impact of his major novels on Russian society. The book delves into Dostoevsky's personal relationships, his religious beliefs, and his philosophical views on topics such as free will, faith, and morality. Frank seamlessly weaves literary criticism, biography, and intellectual history to present a detailed portrait of Dostoevsky as both a person and a writer.
The biography explores Dostoevsky's major works such as 'Crime and Punishment', 'The Idiot', and 'The Brothers Karamazov', highlighting the themes of suffering, redemption, addiction, and human free will that are prevalent throughout his novels. Frank's in-depth analysis of Dostoevsky's writing style and recurring themes provides readers with a deeper understanding of the author's complex characters and moral convictions, making this biography a valuable companion for fans of Dostoevsky's literature.
