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What Men Live By Study Guide
Leo Tolstoy: A Concise Biography
Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, known in the West as Leo Tolstoy, was born on September 9, 1828, in Yasnaya Polyana, Russia. He is hailed as one of the greatest novelists in history. Tolstoy's early works include the autobiographical trilogy "Childhood," "Boyhood," and "Youth." His experiences as a soldier during the Crimean War profoundly influenced his worldview, leading to his later pacifist and ascetic beliefs.
Tolstoy achieved literary immortality with his epic novels "War and Peace" (1869) and "Anna Karenina" (1877), which delve deeply into Russian society, history, and human psychology. In the latter part of his life, Tolstoy underwent a spiritual crisis and adopted a form of Christian anarchism, advocating for nonviolence, simple living, and moral integrity. He expressed these ideals in works like "The Kingdom of God Is Within You" and "Resurrection." Tolstoy died on November 20, 1910, leaving behind an enduring legacy in literature and philosophy.
Historical and Literary Context for "What Men Live By"
"What Men Live By" is a short story written by Leo Tolstoy in 1885. This period was marked by Tolstoy's deep moral and spiritual inquiry. After completing "Anna Karenina," Tolstoy experienced a profound existential crisis, leading him to question the meaning of life and the moral underpinnings of society. This introspection resulted in his embrace of Christian anarchism and a rejection of institutionalized religion and state authority.
The story is a parable that reflects Tolstoy's philosophical and theological musings. It follows Simon, a poor cobbler, who encounters a mysterious stranger, Michael, who turns out to be an angel. Through Michael's revelations, Tolstoy explores themes of divine love, human compassion, and the essence of life. "What Men Live By" exemplifies Tolstoy's belief in the importance of living according to the principles of love and kindness, reflecting his broader critique of materialism and social inequality. The tale is a testament to Tolstoy's enduring commitment to moral and spiritual enlightenment.
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