Twenty-three Tales (ePub)

Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, born to an aristocratic Russian family in 1828, is widely regarded as one of the greatest authors of all time. Tolstoy's literary works are vast and varied, often reflecting his pursuit of moral and philosophical enlightenment. Famous for his epic novels 'War and Peace' (1869) and 'Anna Karenina' (1877), which offer intricate examinations of Russian society, Tolstoy was also a prolific writer of short stories and essays. His collection 'Twenty-three Tales', published in 1903, presents a series of narratives that explore themes of social justice, religion, and morality, emblematic of Tolstoy's later literary and ideological pursuits. A master of realistic fiction, Tolstoy's narratives often unfold with meticulous detail and psychological depth. His ability to weave complex characters and situations allows him to deeply explore personal and societal struggles. A moral philosopher, he sought to understand the ethical responsibilities of individuals and the presence of good and evil in everyday life. Many of his later works, including those in 'Twenty-three Tales', embody these preoccupations and illustrate his shift towards a spiritual and ascetic lifestyle. Straying from the conventions of his earlier works, these tales are more didactic, reflecting his pacifist and anarchist views. Tolstoy's influence endures in literature; his writings on nonviolent resistance have impacted personalities like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Tolstoy died in 1910, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in contemporary discussions of literature and moral philosophy.