Brilio.net - Author Leo Tolstoy has become an interesting topic of conversation following a debate between academic Rocky Gerung and the General Chair of the Red and White Solidarity, Silfester Matutina on a television show.
The debate began when Silfester said he had read Leo Tolstoy's works since elementary school. Rocky responded with the question 'which one'. This dialogue became part of a heated debate between the two.
So who is Leo Tolstoy? Leo Tolstoy is one of the greatest writers in the history of world literature. Born on September 9, 1828 in Tula, Russia, Tolstoy is not only known as a novelist, but also as a philosopher and social reformer. His life and works reflect a profound search for the meaning of life , morality, and human relationships. Let's explore further the profile of this author and his important works that are worth reading.
Leo Tolstoy Profile
Tolstoy was born into a Russian aristocratic family with a military background. Despite his wealth, he was dissatisfied with the life that many people around him were living. After completing his education, Tolstoy joined the Russian Navy, but a military career did not provide the satisfaction he was looking for. His initial success as a writer came in 1852 with his first novel, "The Crow" ("War and Peace" in Russian).
Throughout his life, Tolstoy went through many changes, including spiritual turmoil that led to self-discovery. This is evident in his evolving religious beliefs, which emphasized love, forgiveness, and simplicity. He rejected many aspects of materialism and lived a simple life on his farm. Tolstoy's works reflect this spiritual journey and his evolving ideas about social justice.
Leo Tolstoy's Important Works
War and Peace
- This epic novel published between 1865 and 1869 is considered one of the greatest works of world literature. Depicting life in Russian society during the Napoleonic Wars, the novel explores themes of history, love, and the conflict between the individual and society.
Anna Karenina
- Published in 1877, the novel explores the life of a woman named Anna who is caught in a forbidden love and faces severe social consequences. Through complex characters, Tolstoy presents a sharp critique of society and its norms.
An Introduction to Life (The Kreutzer Sonata)
- In this novella, Tolstoy explores themes of love, marriage, and desire through the story of a jealous husband. The work provokes discussion about gender relations and morality in marriage.
Confession
- In this work, Tolstoy expresses his spiritual quest and doubts about existing religions. It is a personal reflection on the meaning of life and death and a desire to understand the true purpose of man.
Crown Prince (Resurrection)
- This novel, published in 1899, touches on the themes of social and spiritual improvement. A series of events leads the protagonist, Pahom, to face the consequences of his life and attempt to correct his past mistakes.
What Works to Read to Understand Tolstoy
To understand Leo Tolstoy in depth, these three works are highly recommended:
War and Peace - Although long, reading this novel will give the reader a deep understanding of Tolstoy's views on history, life, and the complexities of humanity.
Anna Karenina - As one of the greatest love stories in literature, this novel captures the essence of the moral and emotional dilemmas faced by its characters. Readers can feel the pain of love and regret.
The Kreutzer Sonata - This is a shorter but intense work, perfect for those who want to understand Tolstoy's views on human relationships and morality in love and marriage.
Leo Tolstoy was not only a writer, but also a thinker who raised awareness about many aspects of life. His timeless works remain relevant today. Whether through the epic "War and Peace," the emotional drama "Anna Karenina," or the spiritual reflection in "Confessions," Tolstoy presents profound insights into human beings and human values. Reading his works will not only enrich our literary knowledge, but also provide new perspectives on life and morality that continue to be applied in the modern context.
By reading Tolstoy, readers are not only invited to enjoy the beauty of his writing style, but also to reflect on themselves and understand the complexity of human relationships. Tolstoy is a window to see life from a deeper and more philosophical perspective.