It Could Happen Here CZM Book Club: After the Dance by Leo Tolstoy
Jun 15, 2025
Delve into the complexities of love and societal expectations in Tolstoy's 'After the Dance.' Explore the contrasting themes of personal desire against the backdrop of societal norms, highlighted by a mesmerizing ball. The deep dive into Tolstoy's anarchist ideals showcases his moral reflections, while poignant dance scenes reveal generational connections and fleeting joys. The stark transition from celebration to brutality underscores the profound emotional impact, evoking both shame and introspection on societal issues. A rich tapestry of human experience awaits!
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Society Suppresses Moral Judgment
- Ivan Vasilievich could not understand why the brutal punishment was considered necessary, which led him to withdraw from military and civil service.
- This confusion underscores how societal norms suppress individual moral judgment.
Class and Misogyny in the Story
- The story reflects a fundamentally misogynist perspective where a man's disgust for a woman's father ruins his love for her.
- It illustrates how social and class structures profoundly impact personal relationships and self-understanding.
Real-life Inspiration Behind Story
- The story is based on Tolstoy's brother Sergei's real-life experience of courting a commander's daughter.
- He stopped courting her after witnessing the commander overseeing a cruel beating, highlighting a clash between love and moral outrage.
