Leo Tolstoy, one of Russia’s most celebrated writers, is known for his literary works that capture the essence of human nature. His book “Những người khốn khổ” or “The Poor People” is no exception. This book was published in 1862 and tells the story of a poor family and their struggles to survive in Tsarist Russia.
In this review, we will delve into the world of “Những người khốn khổ” and explore the themes, characters, and writing style of this masterpiece. We will also examine the historical and social context of the book and its relevance to contemporary society.
The purpose of this review is to provide an in-depth analysis of “Những người khốn khổ” and to offer our personal thoughts and opinions on this classic piece of literature. So, let’s begin our journey into the world of Leo Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ”.
Summary of the Book
Plot Summary
“Những người khốn khổ” is a tale of poverty, struggle, and love. The story revolves around a poor family consisting of Makar and Akulina, an elderly couple, and their orphaned granddaughter, Matryona. The family lives in a small, cramped room in a rundown apartment building in Russia.
As the story progresses, we see the family’s struggles with poverty, hunger, and illness. Makar tries his best to provide for his family, but his meager earnings as a shoemaker are not enough. The family’s situation worsens when Matryona falls ill, and they are forced to sell their last possessions to pay for her medical expenses.
Despite their circumstances, the family tries to find happiness in each other’s company. They are joined by their neighbor, Vlas, a kind-hearted man who helps them in their times of need. The story takes a tragic turn when Matryona dies, leaving the family devastated.
Main Characters
The main characters in “Những người khốn khổ” are Makar, Akulina, Matryona, and Vlas. Makar is a hardworking shoemaker who tries his best to provide for his family. Akulina is his wife, who takes care of their granddaughter, Matryona. Matryona is an orphaned girl who is loved deeply by her grandparents. Vlas is their neighbor, who helps the family in their times of need.
Themes and Motifs
The main themes in “Những người khốn khổ” are poverty, family, and love. The book explores the struggles of the poor and the importance of family in difficult times. It also highlights the power of love in overcoming adversity. The book’s motifs include nature, religion, and the contrast between the rich and the poor. Leo Tolstoy masterfully weaves these elements together to create a poignant tale that touches the heart of the reader.
Writing Style and Language
Leo Tolstoy’s writing style and language in “Những người khốn khổ” are renowned for their simplicity and beauty. The language used in the book is accessible to everyone, making it easy for readers to understand and empathize with the characters.
Language and Tone
The language used in “Những người khốn khổ” is straightforward and devoid of any unnecessary embellishments. The author uses a colloquial style, which helps to create a sense of intimacy between the reader and the characters. The tone is conversational, making it feel like the characters are speaking directly to the reader.
Writing Style and Structure
The writing style in “Những người khốn khổ” is characterized by its vivid descriptions and attention to detail. Tolstoy’s use of imagery and metaphor adds depth to the story and helps to create a sense of realism. The book is divided into chapters, each of which focuses on a specific aspect of the story. This structure helps to build suspense and keeps the reader engaged throughout the book.
Comparisons with Other Works by Leo Tolstoy
“Những người khốn khổ” shares many similarities with other works by Leo Tolstoy, such as “War and Peace” and “Anna Karenina”. All of these books feature richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions of the world they inhabit. However, “Những người khốn khổ” is unique in its simplicity and focus on the struggles of ordinary people. This book showcases Tolstoy’s ability to create compelling characters and stories that resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
Historical and Social Context
Leo Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ” is set in Tsarist Russia during the 19th century. The book provides a detailed portrayal of the abject poverty and destitution that many people faced during this time. Tolstoy’s vivid descriptions of the living conditions and the lack of social mobility shed light on the harsh realities of life in Russia at the time.
Historical and Social Context of the Book
During the 19th century, Russia was ruled by the Romanov dynasty, and Tsar Nicholas I was in power. The country was going through a period of significant change, with industrialization and modernization taking place in the cities. However, many people, particularly those in rural areas, continued to live in poverty.
Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ” was written during this period of social upheaval, and it reflects the author’s own experiences of growing up in a wealthy family and later becoming disillusioned with the aristocratic lifestyle. The book is a powerful commentary on the social stratification and inequality that existed in Russian society at the time.
Relevance of the Book to Contemporary Society
Despite being set in a different time and place, “Những người khốn khổ” remains relevant to contemporary society. The issues of poverty, social inequality, and injustice that are depicted in the book continue to be relevant today. Many people around the world still face similar challenges, and the book serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.
Impact of the Book on Literature and Society
Leo Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ” is considered a masterpiece of world literature. The book’s powerful portrayal of poverty and social injustice has had a significant impact on both literature and society. It has inspired countless writers and activists to address issues of social inequality and to fight for social justice.
In conclusion, Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ” is a timeless classic that continues to speak to readers today. The book’s historical and social context provides important insights into the challenges that people faced during the 19th century, and its relevance to contemporary society reminds us of the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.
Critical Analysis
Leo Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ” has received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of poverty and its impact on individuals and society. The book has been praised for its vivid characters, intricate plot, and its ability to capture the essence of human nature.
Critical Reception of the Book
“Những người khốn khổ” has been widely regarded as one of Tolstoy’s finest works. The book has been translated into numerous languages and has been adapted into various forms of media. Critics have praised the book for its social commentary and its ability to shed light on the harsh realities of life for the poor in Tsarist Russia.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Book
One of the strengths of “Những người khốn khổ” is its vivid characters. Tolstoy’s characters are complex and multifaceted, making them relatable to readers from all walks of life. Additionally, the book’s intricate plot keeps readers engaged and invested in the story.
However, one of the weaknesses of the book is its length. At over 600 pages, “Những người khốn khổ” can be daunting for some readers. Additionally, the book’s slow pacing may turn off readers who prefer more action-oriented stories.
Personal Thoughts and Opinions
Overall, “Những người khốn khổ” is a masterpiece of Russian literature. Tolstoy’s ability to capture the essence of human nature and expose the harsh realities of life is unparalleled. While the book may not be for everyone due to its length and pacing, those who take the time to read it will be rewarded with a rich and thought-provoking experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Leo Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ” is a timeless masterpiece that captures the essence of human nature and the struggles of the poor in Tsarist Russia. This book is a must-read for anyone who wishes to gain insight into the human experience and to understand the complexities of society.
Through its powerful themes, unforgettable characters, and beautiful writing style, “Những người khốn khổ” has left an indelible mark on literature and society. It has inspired countless writers, artists, and thinkers and continues to be a source of inspiration and reflection for people all over the world.
In this review, we have explored the different aspects of “Những người khốn khổ”, from its historical and social context to its critical reception and personal opinions. We hope that this review has provided you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this classic piece of literature.
We highly recommend “Những người khốn khổ” to anyone who loves literature and wants to experience the power of storytelling at its finest. So, pick up a copy of this book, sit back, and immerse yourself in the world of Leo Tolstoy’s “Những người khốn khổ”.
