The Decembrists (ePub)

Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, more commonly known as Leo Tolstoy, was a towering figure in Russian literature. Born on September 9, 1828, into an aristocratic Russian family, his experiences would funnel into his writing, endowing it with a depth of perspective that few of his contemporaries could emulate. Tolstoy's literary craftsmanship is immortalized in his epic novels 'War and Peace' (1869) and 'Anna Karenina' (1877), where he weaves intricate narratives that explore the complexities of human nature against the backdrop of the vast Russian landscape. Beyond his narrative prowess, Tolstoy was known for his sharp moral philosophy, outlined in works like 'The Kingdom of God Is Within You' (1894), which has had a lasting influence on nonviolent resistance movements. His lesser-known work 'The Decembrists' chronicles the 1825 rebellion by Russian army officers, offering insights on topics of honor and moral duty, which remained a persistent focus across his narratives. Although unfinished, 'The Decembrists' augments his oeuvre that grapples with pivotal historical, philosophical, and social issues. His stylistic invention and ethical questioning place him not just as a luminary in Russian literature, but also as a universal voice demanding introspection on the perennial questions of existence. Leo Tolstoy died on November 20, 1910, but his works continue to be studied and revered in literary circles worldwide.