Travis Knowlton LCSW
3 min readFeb 28, 2023

Understanding Leo tolstoy.

ANTON- UNSPLASH

Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) was a Russian writer and philosopher, widely regarded as one of the greatest novelists in world literature. His works are known for their realism, depth of character, and social criticism, and have had a profound influence on modern literature.

To understand Tolstoy, it is important to consider his philosophical and social views, which were central to his work. Tolstoy believed in the importance of living a simple and honest life, grounded in moral and spiritual values. He was critical of the materialism and decadence of his time, and believed that individuals and society as a whole needed to return to a more meaningful and authentic way of living.

In his novels, Tolstoy explored themes such as love, family, class, and war, often through a critical lens. For example, in his most famous work, "War and Peace," Tolstoy examines the impact of war on society, the struggles of individuals to find meaning in their lives, and the importance of love and family relationships. In "Anna Karenina," he explores the consequences of social conventions and the struggle for personal freedom.

Tolstoy’s religious beliefs were also a significant influence on his work. He was a devout Christian, and his later writings focused increasingly on spiritual themes. He rejected the institutionalized forms of Christianity of his time, and instead embraced a more…

Travis Knowlton LCSW
Travis Knowlton LCSW

Written by Travis Knowlton LCSW

I'm a husband, father, veteran, and licensed clinical social worker that is here to enjoy and share!

No responses yet