Vie de Tolstoï

"Vie de Tolstoï" by Romain Rolland is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the life and essence of the renowned Russian author Leo Tolstoy, exploring his profound influence on literature and society. The opening chapters present an intimate portrait of Tolstoy, illustrating the fascination he held for Rolland's generation and the way his works resonated deeply with their experiences and aspirations. At the start of the biography, Rolland reflects on the vital impact that Tolstoy's literature had on him and his peers. He recounts the various literary influences on Tolstoy, as well as his complex character and the tumultuous experiences that shaped his worldview. The narrative emphasizes how Tolstoy's artistic genius emerged from a lifetime of personal struggles, rich familial heritage, and interactions with the broader socio-political landscape of his time. Rolland's admiring tone sets the stage for an exploration of Tolstoy’s philosophies and their relevance, particularly concerning his relationships with other great thinkers and his later advocacy for non-resistance, which notably influenced figures like Mahatma Gandhi. (This is an automatically generated summary.)