Khodinka by Leo Tolstoy (1856)
The novel revolves around the life of a young nobleman who returns to his family's estate after serving in the military. He becomes disillusioned with the societal norms and expectations placed upon him, leading to a crisis of identity and purpose. The story explores themes of morality, duty, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.
By Leo Tolstoy · First published 1856 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Tragedy · 3,720 words
First lines
"I cannot understand such obstinacy. Why should you do without sleep and go ‘with the people,' when you can go straight to the pavilion with your Aunt Vera, and see everything without any trouble? I told you Behr had promised to pass you through, though, as far as that's concerned, you have the right of entry as a maid of honour."
It was thus that Prince Paul Golitsin -- known in the aristocratic set as "Pigeon" -- addressed his twenty-three-year-old daughter Alexandra, called for shortness' sake "Rina."
What this Textopian page supports
Khodinka is listed on Textopian as a novella by Leo Tolstoy, dated 1856 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Leo Tolstoy
- Date: 1856 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Tragedy, Historical Fiction, Realism
- Length: 3,720 words
- Structure: 1 section, 82 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Khodinka by Leo Tolstoy
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Khodinka?
- How does this novella by Leo Tolstoy fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex characters and social themes, focusing on personal and societal struggles.
- Social Commentary — It critiques social hierarchies and the disconnect between the aristocracy and the common people.
- Tragedy — The narrative culminates in a tragic event, highlighting the fragility of life and the chaos of human behavior.
- Historical Fiction — Set against the backdrop of a historical event, it reflects the cultural and social dynamics of the time.
Tags
Russian Literature · 19th Century Novel · Realism · Social Commentary · Family Drama · Marriage · Class Conflict · Morality · Philosophy · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Satire