Labour: The Divine Command (eBook)

Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, better known as Leo Tolstoy, was a renowned Russian author, one of the titans of 19th-century literature. Born to an aristocratic Russian family in 1828, Tolstoy is best known for his epic novels 'War and Peace' (1869) and 'Anna Karenina' (1877), which are often touted as pinnacles of realist fiction. Tolstoy's narrative genius, intricate plotting, and deep philosophical inquiries have left an indelible mark on the literary world. In his later years, Tolstoy became an ardent moral thinker and social reformer, which led him to pen 'Labour: The Divine Command'. In this less-known work, Tolstoy explores the moral and spiritual implications of labor, intertwining his narrative with Christian ethics and the pursuit of purpose through hard work. Distinct from his earlier novels, it reflects his later period's leanings towards Christian anarchism and pacifism, echoing his quest for a meaningful, ethical life free from the trappings of wealth and societal status. Although not as widely read as his major novels, 'Labour: The Divine Command' offers a vital insight into Tolstoy's evolving thought, illustrating his literary style that so masterfully blends storytelling with profound philosophical discourse.