Moisture by Leo Tolstoy (1872)
The novel explores the lives of several aristocratic families and their relationships with each other and the peasants who work on their estates. It delves into themes of love, family, class, morality, and the changing social landscape of Russia during the late 19th century. The story centers around the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys, each with their own unique struggles and conflicts. The novel spans over a decade, from 1805 to 1812, and is set against the backdrop of Napoleon's invasion of Russia. Through the characters' experiences, the novel critiques the social conventions and moral hypocrisies of the aristocracy, while also exploring the human condition and the search for meaning and purpose. The novel ultimately concludes with a sense of hope and renewal, as the characters come to terms with their past mistakes and look towards a brighter future. The novel's themes are complex and multifaceted, and it is considered one of the greatest works of literature ever written.
By Leo Tolstoy · First published 1872 · Genre: Philosophical, Natural Science, Essay · 533 words
First lines
I.
Why does a spider sometimes make a close cobweb, and sit in the very middle of its nest, and at other times leave its nest and start a new spider-web?
What this Textopian page supports
Moisture is listed on Textopian as a short story by Leo Tolstoy, dated 1872 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Leo Tolstoy
- Date: 1872 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical, Natural Science, Essay, Allegorical, Non-fiction
- Length: 533 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Moisture by Leo Tolstoy
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Similar titles
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- The Peasant And The Horse by Leo Tolstoy
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Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deeper questions about nature, perception, and the relationship between living beings and their environment.
- Natural Science — The work discusses the properties of materials and natural phenomena, focusing on moisture and its effects on wood and weather.
- Essay — The format and style resemble an essay, presenting observations and reflections rather than a narrative story.
- Allegorical — The spider's behavior serves as a metaphor for understanding and interpreting environmental changes.
Tags
Philosophical · Psychological · Realistic · Russian Literature · 19th Century · Classic · Novel · Fiction · Literary Fiction · Existentialism · Human Condition · Social Commentary