This collection features "Ivan the Fool" and other tales by Leo Tolstoy, a renowned Russian author considered one of the greatest novelists of all time. Born into an aristocratic family in 1828, Tolstoy gained acclaim in his twenties and is best known for his epic novels "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina." His experiences in the Crimean War influenced his views on pacifism and the realistic depiction of war's horrors in his later work. Tolstoy underwent a profound moral and spiritual crisis in the 1870s, which led him to a literal interpretation of Jesus' ethical teachings, making him a fervent Christian anarchist and pacifist. His ideas on nonviolent resistance significantly impacted figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.
"Ivan the Fool" is a satirical novella that explores themes of simplicity, humility, kindness, and honest labor, contrasting them with greed, ambition, militarism, and devilish temptation. The story, which draws on Russian folklore, presents Ivan's plain goodness as wiser than the worldly ambitions of his brothers, a soldier and a merchant, who are ruined by their desires for power and money. This tale reflects Tolstoy's disdain for the Russian social system, his belief in the intrinsic goodness of the Russian peasant, and the sanctity of manual labor, idealizing peasant life. It also serves as an expression of his understanding of Christian duties towards others.
Collectors might find this book interesting due to its inclusion of "Ivan the Fool," a work that exemplifies Tolstoy's post-conversion philosophical concerns and his shift towards moral and philosophical commentary. This period of his writing, following his spiritual awakening, produced some of his most philosophical and controversial works. The novella's critique of militarism and commercialism, alongside its advocacy for a simple, moral lifestyle, offers insight into Tolstoy's evolving worldview and his profound influence on ethical thought. The inclusion of other tales further enriches the collection, showcasing the breadth of his short fiction.
Good. The cloth-covered boards are edgeworn with loss to the head of the spine. Hinges and joints are tight. Plates and illustrations are very good. The dust jacket is chipped along edges with some loss to the head of the spine. The text block is crisp.
First edition. First Printing. With Dust Jacket. Illustrated edition. Hardcover bound in cloth.
Location: ABS-1-4-012