Two Old Men by Leo Tolstoy (1852)

Name: Two Old Men
Author: Leo Tolstoy

The story revolves around two elderly men who live in a small village and are struggling to come to terms with their own mortality. They spend most of their days reminiscing about the past and discussing the meaning of life, death, and the afterlife. Their conversations often turn into debates, as they challenge each other's views on various philosophical topics. The men's discussions are not just intellectual exercises but also a way to cope with the physical and emotional decline that comes with old age. Throughout the narrative, Tolstoy explores themes of existentialism, nihilism, and the search for meaning in life. The two old men's conversations serve as a microcosm for the human condition, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of existence. The story is not just about the men's intellectual pursuits but also about their emotional struggles, including feelings of loneliness, regret, and despair. Despite these challenges, they find comfort in each other's company and continue to engage in deep conversations that help them make sense of their lives. Ultimately, the narrative raises questions about the purpose of human existence and whether it is possible to find meaning in life despite its inherent suffering and impermanence.

By Leo Tolstoy · First published 1852 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Social Commentary · 12 chapters · 10,591 words

First lines

"The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh when neither in this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, shall ye worship the Father. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for such doth the Father seek to be his worshippers. " John 4: 19-–-21, 23

There were once two old men who decided to go on a pilgrimage to worship God at Jerusalem. One of them was a well-to-do peasant named Efím Tarásitch Shevélef. The other, Elisha Bódrof, was not so well off.

What this Textopian page supports

Two Old Men is listed on Textopian as a novella by Leo Tolstoy, dated 1852 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: 1852 CE
Language: English
Genres: Religious Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Social Commentary, Character Study, Realism
Length: 10,591 words
Structure: 12 chapters, 189 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Religious Fiction — The narrative centers around themes of faith, pilgrimage, and the moral implications of one's actions in relation to God.
Philosophical Fiction — The story explores deep philosophical questions about duty, the nature of good and evil, and the meaning of life through the characters' choices.
Social Commentary — The work reflects on social issues such as poverty, community, and the human condition, highlighting the struggles of the characters.
Character Study — The focus on the two old men allows for an in-depth exploration of their personalities, motivations, and moral dilemmas.