What Men Live By by Leo Tolstoy

Name: What Men Live By
Author: Leo Tolstoy

The story revolves around a beggar who possesses an inner light that brings warmth and comfort to those around him. He lives by his own moral code, which is based on compassion and kindness. The narrative explores the contrast between the beggar's selfless nature and the selfishness of those he encounters.

By Leo Tolstoy · First published 1885 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Religious Allegory, Short Story · 12 chapters · 10,014 words

First lines

"We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not abideth in death. " 1 John 3: 14

"Whoso hath the world's goods, and beholdeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his compassion from him, how doth the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither with the tongue; but in deed and truth. " 3: 17-–-18

What this Textopian page supports

What Men Live By is listed on Textopian as a novella 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: Novella
Author: Leo Tolstoy
Date: 1885 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Religious Allegory, Short Story, Social Commentary, Realism
Length: 10,014 words
Structure: 12 chapters, 210 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores profound themes about love, compassion, and the essence of human existence, prompting readers to reflect on moral and ethical questions.
Religious Allegory — The story serves as an allegory for spiritual truths, illustrating the relationship between humanity and divine love, and the lessons learned through acts of kindness.
Short Story — The work is a concise narrative that encapsulates a complete story arc, focusing on character development and thematic depth within a limited scope.
Social Commentary — The text critiques social conditions and human behavior, particularly regarding poverty, compassion, and the interconnectedness of human lives.