The Cossacks/Happy Ever After/Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy (Penguin Classics)

Description

“The Cossacks,” “Happy Ever After,” and “The Death of Ivan Ilyich,” are three distinct literary pieces by the Russian author Leo Tolstoy. Each of these works reflects Tolstoy’s profound exploration of human nature, society, and the human condition.

1. The Cossacks (1863): “The Cossacks” is a novella that tells the story of a young Russian aristocrat named Olenin, who joins a Cossack community in the Caucasus Mountains. Through Olenin’s experiences among the Cossacks, Tolstoy delves into themes of self-discovery, the clash of cultures, and the allure of a simpler, more authentic way of life. It’s a work that explores the tension between civilization and the untamed natural world.
2. Happy Ever After (1859): “Happy Ever After,” also known as “Family Happiness,” is a novella that follows the life of Masha, a young woman who marries a much older man, Sergey. The story explores themes of love, marriage, and the passage of time as Masha grapples with the challenges and complexities of her relationship. Tolstoy examines the evolution of Masha’s feelings and her search for lasting happiness.
3. The Death of Ivan Ilyich (1886): “The Death of Ivan Ilyich” is a celebrated novella that confronts the profound existential question of the meaning of life in the face of death. The story revolves around Ivan Ilyich Golovin, a high-ranking judge, who becomes terminally ill and reflects on his life choices and the superficiality of his existence. Tolstoy’s exploration of mortality, alienation, and the search for authentic living makes this work a classic of Russian literature.

Each of these works showcases Tolstoy’s keen insights into the human psyche and society. They offer readers a glimpse into the philosophical and moral questions that preoccupied Tolstoy throughout his life.