Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy (Wordsworth Classics)

Description

“Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy is a timeless classic of Russian literature, widely regarded as one of the greatest novels ever written. Published in serial form between 1873 and 1877, the novel tells the story of Anna Karenina, a beautiful and aristocratic woman who becomes embroiled in a tragic love affair that leads to her downfall.

The novel is set in the high society of imperial Russia, where Anna’s passionate love for Count Vronsky, a dashing cavalry officer, sets her on a collision course with the rigid social norms and moral conventions of the time. As Anna’s affair becomes increasingly public and scandalous, she finds herself ostracized by society and torn between her love for Vronsky and her responsibilities as a wife and mother.

Interwoven with Anna’s story are the parallel narratives of other characters, including Konstantin Levin, a wealthy landowner grappling with questions of faith, philosophy, and the meaning of life. Through Levin’s experiences, Tolstoy explores themes of love, family, work, and spirituality, offering a panoramic portrait of Russian society and the human condition.

“Anna Karenina” is celebrated for its richly drawn characters, complex psychological insights, and masterful storytelling. Tolstoy’s prose is elegant and evocative, capturing the nuances of human emotion and the beauty of the Russian landscape with equal skill. The novel’s exploration of love, desire, and the search for meaning continues to resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, making it a timeless masterpiece of world literature.