The Journal of Leo Tolstoi (First Volume—1895-1899)

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

46272

Title

The Journal of Leo Tolstoi (First Volume—1895-1899)

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume presents the private spiritual journals of Leo Tolstoy from 1895 to 1899, offering an intimate look at his moral evolution and inner conflicts. Written with raw sincerity, these entries chronicle his struggle against violence, his devotion to Christian non-resistance, and his deep concern for the Russian peasantry. A profound meditation on art, faith, and the human soul.

Summary up to 500 words

In the first volume of *The Journal of Leo Tolstoi* (1895–1899), the author documents a profound spiritual awakening and moral reckoning during a pivotal era in his life. The text reveals a man grappling with the contradictions between his public literary fame and his private rejection of state, church, and military authority. Tolstoy reflects deeply on the nature of true art as a means of universal communication, condemning dogma and metaphysical abstraction in favor of simple, accessible truth. The journals capture his evolving stance on non-resistance to evil, which eventually led him to advocate for absolute pacifism. This included refusing military service and paying taxes that supported oppressive regimes. He expresses fierce indignation over social injustices, such as the persecution of religious sects like the Dukhobors and Molokans, whose children were forcibly removed by authorities. His thoughts frequently turn to the suffering of the poor, the futility of violence, and the necessity of living a life aligned with Christian love. Tolstoy critiques his own past works and the literary world, often feeling alienated from the intellectual elite while remaining deeply connected to the common people. He discusses his relationships with friends, followers, and critics, including Vasily Chertkov, who later edited these manuscripts. The entries oscillate between moments of profound clarity and despair, illustrating the difficulty of maintaining a consistent moral path in a corrupt society. As he approaches the turn of the century, Tolstoy's resolve hardens; he prepares to renounce his copyrights and dedicate himself entirely to serving humanity through simple labor and spiritual teaching. This collection serves as a crucial historical document, bridging the gap between the great novelist and the ascetic 'Evangelist' who would influence millions in the early 20th century. It stands as a testament to an individual conscience refusing to compromise with power or convention.

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Categories

• Russian Literature
• Diaries