Lev Tolstoy Hardcover – January 1, 1978 by Victor Shklovsky (Author)

The book Lev Tolstoy (1978) by Victor Shklovsky is a critical biography of the famous Russian author Leo Tolstoy, written by one of the leading literary theorists of the 20th century. Victor Shklovsky, a key figure in the Russian Formalist school of literary criticism, provides a unique and profound exploration of Tolstoy’s life, works, and artistic legacy.

Key Themes and Topics:

1. Tolstoy’s Life:

   • The book covers the major events of Leo Tolstoy’s life, from his aristocratic upbringing to his later years as a moralist and spiritual thinker.
   • Tolstoy’s struggles with personal and philosophical questions, his relationships, and his transformation from a novelist into a religious and social reformer.

2. Analysis of Tolstoy’s Works:

   • Detailed examinations of Tolstoy’s literary masterpieces, including:
     • War and Peace: Its epic scale, philosophical undertones, and portrayal of Russian society.
     • Anna Karenina: Themes of love, morality, and societal constraints.
     • The Death of Ivan Ilyich: Reflections on mortality and the meaning of life.
   • Shklovsky investigates how Tolstoy’s personal experiences and evolving worldview influenced his writing.

3. Tolstoy’s Philosophical Journey:

   • Discussion of Tolstoy’s spiritual awakening, rejection of organized religion, and adoption of a pacifist, anarchist Christian philosophy.
   • The impact of his religious and moral beliefs on his later works and his interactions with the Russian Orthodox Church.

4. Shklovsky’s Theoretical Approach:

   • As a Russian Formalist, Shklovsky emphasizes the form, structure, and technique in Tolstoy’s writing.
   • The book explores Tolstoy’s narrative innovations, such as his use of psychological depth, realism, and complex character development.

5. Tolstoy’s Legacy:

   • The book discusses Tolstoy’s enduring impact on literature, philosophy, and social thought.
   • Shklovsky reflects on Tolstoy’s influence within Russian and global literary traditions.

Why It’s Significant:

• Unique Perspective: Shklovsky’s background in literary theory provides a distinctive lens for understanding Tolstoy’s works and their artistic significance.
• Blend of Biography and Criticism: The book combines an engaging narrative of Tolstoy’s life with rigorous analysis of his literature.
• Contextual Insight: It situates Tolstoy within the cultural and historical framework of 19th-century Russia.

Target Audience:

• Scholars and students of Russian literature and literary theory.
• Readers interested in Tolstoy’s life, philosophy, and works.
• Those who appreciate a critical, analytical approach to literary biographies.

Victor Shklovsky’s Lev Tolstoy is not just a biography but also a deep exploration of the writer’s artistic genius, making it a valuable resource for understanding Tolstoy’s contributions to world literature.

Product details

• Customer Reviews: 
  5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars   (2)