The Three Hermits by Leo Tolstoy
Three old men live on a remote island, surviving off the land and sea. They are visited by three travelers who ask for their guidance on how to achieve spiritual enlightenment. The hermits share their wisdom, which is rooted in their simple, rustic way of life.
By Leo Tolstoy · First published 1885 · Genre: Spiritual Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Allegory · 3,220 words
First lines
"And in praying use not vain repetitions, as the Gentiles do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him. " Matthew 6: 7-–-8
What this Textopian page supports
The Three Hermits is listed on Textopian as a short story by Leo Tolstoy, dated 1885 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: 1885 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spiritual Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Allegory, Religious Fiction, Short Story
- Length: 3,220 words
- Structure: 1 section, 71 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Three Hermits by Leo Tolstoy
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Three Hermits?
- How does this short story by Leo Tolstoy fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Spiritual Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Fisherman And The Fish by Leo Tolstoy
- A Spiritual Manifestation by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Three Parables by Leo Tolstoy
- Balthasar by Anatole France
- What Men Live By by Leo Tolstoy
- The Final Unmasking by George Macdonald
Genres
- Spiritual Fiction — The narrative explores themes of faith, prayer, and the nature of spirituality through the interactions between the Bishop and the hermits.
- Philosophical Fiction — The story raises questions about the meaning of true faith and the essence of prayer, prompting reflection on religious practices.
- Allegory — The characters and their actions symbolize deeper moral and spiritual lessons, particularly regarding the simplicity of faith.
- Religious Fiction — The plot centers around religious figures and teachings, emphasizing the importance of prayer and divine connection.
Tags
Fable · Philosophy · Spirituality · Moralism · Short Story · Russian Literature · Tolstoyan Themes · Existentialism · Faith · Doubt · Suffering · Redemption