Tolstoy’s Great Novel

Last week, my class on Adultery in 19th Century Literature, was finishing up discussion of Madame Bovary.  There was so much more to explore but it is the nature of classes to keep moving on so…here we are.  Next up is one of the best known and I think loved novels, Anna Karenina.  This is a long one so I will need lots of time to read or should I say reread as I read this many years ago.  Going back is always interesting because the book stays the same while the reader changes and may bring different insights the next time.  Thus far, I am getting to know the characters including Prince Oblsonsky, his wife Dolly, Levin and Kittty.  In the next few pages Anna will come in.  The writing is so rich that I want to savor this novel as I go.  I will share a snippet or two below.

First the opening line which is one of the best known in literature.  “All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.”  What do you think?  Do you agree?

Next Prince Oblonsky (Stiva) and his reflections on himself, marriage and adultery. He…
“was a truthful man concerning his own self…He repented only that he had not managed to conceal things (his affair).”   How does each of us rationalize, justify and hide things? Is this self-knowledge of the Prince useful?

More to come…hope you are interested because I think that there will be a lot to say.

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Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses! View all posts by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews