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War and Peace

1440 pages, 2017

fiction

fiction

1382 books
Takeaways
Description

In 1805 at a society party in St. Petersburg, Russia, the prospect of war dominates the conversation. Terror swiftly engulfs the country as Napoleon's army marches on Russia, and three young people's lives are changed forever.

. The stories of quixotic Pierre, cynical Andrey, and impetuous Natasha interweave with a giant cast, from aristocrats and peasants to soldiers and Napoleon himself in War and Peace. 

In this masterpiece, Tolstoy entwines grand themes—conflict and love, birth and death, free will and fate—with unforgettable scenes of nineteenth-century Russia to create a magnificent epic of human life in all its imperfection and grandeur for more than seventy years.

The Complexity of Human Nature

In War and Peace, Leo Tolstoy explores the complexity of human nature. He shows us that people are not just good or bad, but a mix of both. This book encourages us to look deeper into our own character and understand that we all have strengths and weaknesses.

The Impact of War

Tolstoy doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of war. He paints a vivid picture of the destruction and chaos it brings. This book will make you think about the real cost of conflict and how it affects not just the soldiers, but also the civilians.

The Importance of Love and Family

Despite the backdrop of war, the book also highlights the importance of love and family. Tolstoy shows us that even in the midst of turmoil, these are the things that keep us grounded. It's a reminder to cherish our loved ones and not take them for granted.

The Struggle for Power

War and Peace also explores the struggle for power. It shows how people can be driven by ambition and greed, often leading to disastrous consequences. This book will make you question the true meaning of power and success.

The Role of Fate and Free Will

One of the key themes in the book is the role of fate and free will. Tolstoy makes us ponder whether our lives are predestined or if we have the power to shape our own destiny. It's a thought-provoking read that will make you reflect on your own life choices.

Quotes 5

If the world could write by itself, it would write like Tolstoy.

Virginia WoolfVirginia Woolf - Modernist literature

Tolstoy's War and Peace, perhaps the greatest of all novels, uniquely combines the breadth of vision and minute detail.

Thomas MannThomas Mann - Novelist, social critic

He is never dull, never stupid, never tired, never pedantic, never theatrical!

James JoyceJames Joyce - Modernist literature

Tolstoy is the greatest Russian writer, and War and Peace is his greatest work.

Fyodor DostoevskyFyodor Dostoevsky - Philosophical literature

What an artist and what a psychologist!

Ivan TurgenevIvan Turgenev - Realist literature
Virginia WoolfThomas MannJames JoyceFyodor DostoevskyIvan Turgenev

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War and Peace found in libraries

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102 books

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