Anna Karenina

Definition

Anna Karenina is a novel written by Russian author Leo Tolstoy, published in 1877. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest works of literature, exploring themes of love, infidelity, family, and the complexities of Russian society during the 19th century. The narrative follows the tragic story of its titular character, Anna, as she navigates her passionate affair with Count Vronsky while grappling with the constraints of societal expectations and her own moral dilemmas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anna Karenina is structured in eight parts, with multiple subplots that interweave the lives of various characters, highlighting the social dynamics of Russian aristocracy.
2. The novel's famous opening line, 'All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way,' sets the tone for its exploration of familial relationships.
3. Anna's relationship with Vronsky is marked by intense passion but ultimately leads to her alienation from society and a tragic ending.
4. The character of Levin serves as Tolstoy's alter ego and represents the author's views on love, marriage, and the search for meaning in life.
5. Tolstoy's use of detailed descriptions and psychological depth offers profound insights into the characters' motivations and the societal pressures they face.

Review Questions

• How does Anna Karenina illustrate the principles of realism in literature?
  • Anna Karenina exemplifies realism through its intricate portrayal of Russian society and the everyday struggles faced by its characters. The novel focuses on ordinary people dealing with complex emotions and societal norms rather than idealized representations. Through detailed descriptions of characters' thoughts and actions, Tolstoy captures the authenticity of their experiences, showcasing how personal choices intersect with societal expectations.
• Analyze how Tolstoy uses the theme of 'The Double Life' in Anna's character and what it signifies within the broader context of Russian society.
  • In Anna Karenina, the theme of 'The Double Life' manifests in Anna's existence as both a wife and a lover. This duality represents the conflict between personal desire and societal obligation. As Anna pursues her affair with Vronsky, she becomes increasingly isolated from her family and peers, highlighting the harsh realities faced by women who challenge societal norms. This theme underscores the limitations imposed on individuals by a rigid social structure.
• Evaluate how Anna Karenina reflects Tolstoy's philosophical beliefs about love and morality through its characters' interactions and fates.
  • Anna Karenina serves as a rich canvas for exploring Tolstoy's philosophical beliefs regarding love and morality. The contrasting fates of Anna and Levin illustrate different approaches to love; Anna's passionate but ultimately destructive relationship with Vronsky highlights the perils of pursuing fleeting desires without considering moral implications. In contrast, Levin's journey toward understanding love through marriage and family reflects Tolstoy's advocacy for authentic connections rooted in mutual respect and responsibility. Through these character arcs, Tolstoy critiques societal norms while advocating for a deeper understanding of love that transcends superficial passions.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement that seeks to depict everyday life and society accurately, often focusing on ordinary characters and situations.

Tolstoyan Philosophy: The ethical and philosophical ideas proposed by Leo Tolstoy, emphasizing simplicity, non-violence, and a deep moral and spiritual life.

The Double Life: A theme represented in literature where a character lives in two contrasting worlds or identities, often creating conflict and tension.