The Complete Plays of Leo Tolstoy (eBook)

In 'The Complete Plays of Leo Tolstoy', readers are presented with an expansive and astutely compiled anthology of dramatic works by one of Russia's most revered literary figures. The collection showcases Tolstoy's foray into the realm of theatre with profound, incisive plays such as 'The Power of Darkness' and 'The Light Shines in Darkness'. Each play, written in the distinct realist style that characterizes Tolstoy's approach to literature, scrutinizes the intricate layers of human morality and societal structures. Enriched by an introduction, a short biography, critical essays, and reminiscences, this tome reflects the thematic preoccupations and the stark, yet nuanced, portrayal of truth that typify Tolstoy's writing, firmly situating it within the broader literary context of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Leo Tolstoy's illustrious heritage and intellectual journey bear heavy imprints on his dramatic oeuvre. Renowned for his masterpieces 'War and Peace' and 'Anna Karenina', Tolstoy infused his plays with existential questions and a critical perspective on social inequities. Crucial to Tolstoy's works is his later spiritual awakening and commitment to a life of ascetic morality, which not only influenced his philosophical essays but also extended into the themes and character development within his plays. This compilation includes analytical reflections by Ivan Panin and Isabel Hapgood, alongside personal accounts by Tolstoy's son and contemporaries, offering enlightening glimpses into Tolstoy's life, his creative process, and the complex interplay between his principles and his art.
Lovers of classic drama and students of Russian literature will find 'The Complete Plays of Leo Tolstoy' an indispensable addition to their collection. Embedded within these plays are the raw intensity and moral urgency that define Tolstoy's enduring legacy. This volume serves not only as a tribute to Tolstoy's playwright capability but also as a vital scholarly resource, offering in-depth insights into the mind of a writer whose timeless works continue to resonate with audiences across time and space. Readers intent on discovering the full spectrum of Tolstoy's genius will treasure this comprehensive ensemble of his lesser-known, yet equally compelling, theatrical expressions.