Member-only story

The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories: A Haunting Exploration of Mortality and Meaning

Jerome Blair

·12.1k Followers· Follow

Published in The Death Of Ivan Ilyich And Other Stories (Vintage Classics)

4 min read

1k View Claps

57 Respond

Save

Listen

Leo Tolstoy's "The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories" is a collection of five short stories that delve into the profound and often unsettling themes of mortality, the search for meaning in life, and the human condition.

The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories (Vintage Classics)

by Leo Tolstoy

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2242 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	529 pages

The title story, "The Death of Ivan Ilyich," is a masterpiece of existentialist literature. It follows Ivan Ilyich, a successful lawyer whose comfortable life is shattered by a terminal illness. As he faces his impending death, Ivan Ilyich undergoes a harrowing journey of self-discovery and despair.

Ivan Ilyich Lying On His Deathbed, Surrounded By His Family And Doctor The Death Of Ivan Ilyich And Other Stories (Vintage Classics)

Tolstoy's vivid descriptions of Ivan Ilyich's physical and emotional suffering are both haunting and deeply thought-provoking. The story explores the absurdity of human existence, the transient nature of material possessions, and the importance of living a meaningful life.

The other stories in the collection are equally compelling and insightful. "Master and Man" tells the tale of a cruel master who is forced to confront his own mortality when his servant falls ill and dies during a snowstorm. "Three Deaths" contrasts the deaths of three different people from different social classes, highlighting the universal nature of death.

"The Forged Coupon" explores the consequences of a seemingly minor act of dishonesty, while "Polikushka" tells the heart-wrenching story of a young peasant boy who is killed by his abusive father. Each story offers a unique perspective on the themes of mortality, suffering, and human resilience.

Polikushka, A Young Peasant Boy, Is Beaten To Death By His Abusive Father The Death Of Ivan Ilyich And Other Stories (Vintage Classics) — The tragic death of Polikushka highlights the brutality and injustice that can exist in society.

Tolstoy's writing in these stories is masterful, characterized by its psychological depth, vivid imagery, and philosophical insights. His ability to portray the complexities of human nature and the inevitability of death is both profound and moving.

"The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories" is a timeless collection that resonates with readers of all ages and backgrounds. Tolstoy's stories confront us with the harsh realities of life and death, but they also offer a glimmer of hope and redemption.

By exploring the universal themes of mortality and meaning, Tolstoy challenges us to reflect on our own lives and to strive for a deeper understanding of our existence.

The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories (Vintage Classics)

by Leo Tolstoy

4.7 out of 5