What Men Live By, and Other Tales

Name: What Men Live By, and Other Tales
Author: graf Leo Tolstoy

By graf Leo Tolstoy

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Russian Literature Short Stories

About This Book

A group of short moral tales set in simple, often rural, surroundings presents parable-like episodes that probe compassion, wisdom, and human failings. One narrative follows a poor craftsman who takes in a mysterious stranger and learns about charity and what truly sustains life; others pose a seeker’s questions about the right time to act, the price of appetite for land and wealth, and the moral consequences of pride. The pieces use plain storytelling and concrete incidents to deliver pointed reflections, each closing with a clear ethical lesson emphasizing empathy, humility, and spiritual priorities over material gain.

About the Author

graf Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy, a prominent Russian author and philosopher, is best known for his epic novels that explore complex themes of morality, society, and human experience. His most famous works include "Anna Karenina," which delves into the intricacies of love and infidelity, and "War and Peace," a sweeping narrative set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. Beyond fiction, Tolstoy was a significant thinker in the realms of ethics and spirituality, as evidenced in his essays such as "The Kingdom of God Is Within You," where he articulates his views on nonviolent resistance and Christian anarchism. His literary contributions have left a lasting impact on both literature and philosophy.