The Meaning of the Russian Revolution

"The Meaning of the Russian Revolution" is a novel by Nobel Prize winning and highly-acclaimed Russian author Leo Tolstoy. In describing the 1905 Russian Revolution Tolstoy traces back the history of Europe as a whole and Russia in particular. He suggests that the nation has come full circle and that the people who had earlier submitted themselves to monarchical rule now find themselves burdened with its excesses and corruption. He however advocates for non-violent revolution as the means to bring about a new Russian society.

Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, more commonly known as Leo Tolstoy, was born on September 9, 1828, in Yasnaya Polyana, Russia, and died on November 20, 1910. He is regarded as one of the greatest novelists in the realm of literature. A writer of profound philosophical and moral depth, Tolstoy's works are essential in understanding the complexities of 19th-century Russian society. His most renowned works include 'War and Peace' (1869) and 'Anna Karenina' (1877), which are often cited for their intricate character development and sweeping narratives that provide insight into Russian culture and spirituality. While 'The Meaning of the Russian Revolution' is not among his most recognized titles, it represents a facet of his preoccupation with social reform and moral introspection in response to the political currents in Russia. His literary style combines realism and moralistic narratives, exploring themes such as nonviolence, poverty, and the quest for truth through a didactic yet profoundly humanistic lens. Tolstoy's influence extends beyond literature into religious and social realms, as his later works and essays contributed significantly to the development of Christian anarchism and pacifism. Despite his aristocratic origins, Tolstoy's later life exemplified an ascetic ideal, as he sought to live in simplicity and in accordance with his philosophical principles.