Graf Leo Tolstoy

Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy (Russian: Лев Никола́евич Толсто́й, IPA: [ˈlʲev nʲɪkɐˈlaɪvʲɪtɕ tɐlˈstoj]; 9 September 1828 – 20 November 1910) was a Russian writer, considered one of the greatest novelists of all time. His two most famous works, War and Peace and Anna Karenina, are epic novels that deal with themes of love, loss, family, and society. Tolstoy's short stories, including The Death of Ivan Ilyich, are also highly regarded.

Tolstoy was born into an aristocratic family in Tula, Russia. He was educated at home and at the University of Kazan, but he never completed his studies. After serving in the army during the Crimean War, Tolstoy returned to Russia and began writing. His first major work, War and Peace, was published in 1869. The novel is a sprawling epic that tells the story of five aristocratic families during the Napoleonic Wars. It is considered one of the greatest novels ever written.

Tolstoy's second major work, Anna Karenina, was published in 1878. The novel tells the story of an adulterous woman who is ostracized by society. It is another epic novel that is considered one of Tolstoy's masterpieces.

In addition to his novels, Tolstoy also wrote a number of short stories, essays, and philosophical works. His short stories, such as The Death of Ivan Ilyich, are known for their realism and their exploration of existential themes. His essays, such as The Kingdom of God is Within You, are known for their criticisms of religion and government.

Tolstoy was a complex and controversial figure. He was a deeply religious man who later rejected organized religion. He was also a radical thinker who was critical of the Russian government. His views on religion and government led to his excommunication from the Russian Orthodox Church in 1901.

Tolstoy died in 1910 at the age of 82. He is considered one of the greatest Russian writers of all time, and his works continue to be read and studied around the world.

Here are some of Tolstoy's most famous quotes:

• "All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way."
• "If you look for darkness, you will surely find it."
• "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."
• "The only time to do great work is now. Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today."
• "Everyone wants to change the world, but no one wants to change themselves."

Tolstoy's works continue to be relevant today. They explore themes that are timeless, such as love, loss, family, and society. His characters are complex and relatable, and his stories are full of insight and wisdom. Tolstoy is a true master of the novel, and his works are sure to be enjoyed by readers for generations to come.