Picturing Tolstoy

A Biographical Snapshot

De: G. K. Chesterton, G. H. Perris, Edward Garnett

Narrado por: Kenneth F. Lowry

This brief, but quite remarkable, look at the life and work of Tolstoy includes a critical analysis of his novels, as well as his ethical philosophy. Includes a judicious selection of photographs.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2020 MSAC Philosophy Group (P)2021 David Christopher Lane

'The Utmost Possible Simplicity of Life'

G.K. Chesterton opens this exploration of Tolstoy with this view of the great man's religion: "He is a Catholic church, of which he is the only member, the somewhat arrogant Pope, and the somewhat submissive layman."

Then G.K.C. summarizes Tolstoyian philosophy: "Tolstoy would say: 'I believe in the utmost possible simplification of life ...'"

Although in the end, Chesterton seems to believe Tolstoy went off the rails with his vegetarian peacenik beliefs because he lacked a poetic mystic's temperament, the originality of this brief essay provides insights not found anywhere else.

The other two essays by two other authors may be helpful but they are more standard brand literary takes on Tolstoy.

After spending a little more than an hour listening to these essays, one might be inspired to read more.

last chapter excellent

To me, too much digression until final chapter. Still, worth buying & reading. I learned a lot about the culture during his life.