The Memoirs of a Mother
This work is a collection of essays and letters that explore the nature of motherhood and family life. It is written from the perspective of a mother who reflects on her experiences raising children and navigating relationships with her husband and other family members. The text touches on themes such as love, duty, and personal identity, offering insights into the complexities of domestic life in 19th-century Russia.
By Leo Tolstoy · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Autobiographical Fiction · 5,477 words
First lines
I had known Marie Alexandrovna ever since we were children. As so often happens with young people, there was no suggestion of lovemaking about our companionship, with the possible exception of one evening when she was at our house and we played "Ladies and Gentlemen. " She was fifteen, with plump, rosy hands, beautiful dark eyes, and a thick plait of black hair. I was so impressed by her during that evening that I imagined that I was in love with her. But that was the only time; during all the rest of our forty years' acquaintance we were on those excellent terms of friendship which exist between a man and a woman who mutually respect each other, which are so delightful when -- as in our case -- they are free from any idea of lovemaking.
What this Textopian page supports
The Memoirs of a Mother is listed on Textopian as a novel by Leo Tolstoy, dated Date unknown.
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: Date unknown
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Autobiographical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction
- Length: 5,477 words
- Structure: 1 section, 67 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Memoirs of a Mother by Leo Tolstoy
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- My Life by Anton Chekhov
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- My Twenty Five Days by Guy De Maupassant
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- A Grain As Big As A Hens Egg by Leo Tolstoy
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores deep emotional and psychological themes, focusing on personal relationships and the complexities of motherhood.
- Drama — The narrative presents intense emotional conflicts and character development, highlighting the struggles and tragedies of family life.
- Autobiographical Fiction — The story is presented as a memoir, reflecting personal experiences and insights into the protagonist's life.
- Philosophical Fiction — The text delves into moral and existential questions, particularly regarding love, sacrifice, and the nature of happiness.
Tags
Autobiographical · Biographical · Memoir · Literary Fiction · Russian Literature · 19th Century · Family Dynamics · Motherhood · Parenting · Coming of Age · Social Commentary · Philosophical