A Russian Proprietor by Leo Tolstoy

Name: A Russian Proprietor
Author: Leo Tolstoy

The novel revolves around a middle-aged man who returns to his hometown after years abroad and becomes embroiled in the lives of the local people. He struggles with feelings of isolation and disconnection from the community, while also grappling with his own sense of identity and purpose. As he navigates these complexities, the protagonist's relationships with various characters serve as a catalyst for self-discovery and growth. Through his interactions with them, he begins to confront his own flaws and limitations, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world. The novel explores themes of identity, community, and the human condition, raising questions about the nature of belonging and the search for meaning in life.

By Leo Tolstoy · First published 1886 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Realism, Social Commentary · 20 chapters · 26,348 words

First lines

Prince Nekhliudof was nineteen years of age when, at the end of his third term at the university, he came to spend his summer vacation on his estate. He was alone there all the summer.

In the autumn he wrote in his unformed, boyish hand, a letter to his aunt, the Countess Biéloretskaïa, who, according to his notion, was his best friend, and the most genial woman in the world. The letter was in French, and was to the following effect: --

What this Textopian page supports

A Russian Proprietor is listed on Textopian as a novel by Leo Tolstoy, dated 1886 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Leo Tolstoy
Date: 1886 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Realism, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction
Length: 26,348 words
Structure: 20 chapters, 500 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by Leo Tolstoy fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores complex characters and themes, focusing on the human condition and moral dilemmas.
Realism — It presents a detailed and unembellished depiction of life, particularly the social and economic conditions of the time.
Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and the class structure, reflecting on the lives of landowners and peasants.
Historical Fiction — The setting and context provide insight into the historical period of Russian society.