In this lively debate, celebrated writer John Mullan champions Dickens, while historian Simon Schama defends Tolstoy. They passionately discuss literary styles, with Schama highlighting Tolstoy's depth and contemporary relevance. Intense themes from Tolstoy's works, including the hardships of war and emotional turmoil in love, come to life through dramatic readings. Mullan critiques Dickens’ melodrama, adding fuel to the fiery exchange. It's a battle of words that explores love, loss, and the enduring legacies of these literary giants.
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Tolstoy and Dickens
Tolstoy heard Dickens read A Christmas Carol in London in 1861.
Tolstoy's own work is not known for its humor.
insights INSIGHT
Tolstoy's Immersive Style
Tolstoy's writing is immersive, inviting readers into a lived experience.
Unlike Dickens' theatrical style, Tolstoy's is simple, direct, and focused on people, not characters.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Tolstoy's War Experience
Tolstoy's war experiences, like his raid in Chechnya and Crimean War service, shaped his writing.
This is reflected in Haji Murat, a story about a Chechen village raided by the Russian army.
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Tolstoy's *Master and Man* is a novella that delves into the themes of redemption and self-discovery. It follows the story of a wealthy landowner, Brekhunov, who embarks on a perilous journey during a blizzard. Initially self-absorbed, Brekhunov undergoes a profound transformation as he confronts his mortality and the suffering of his servant. Through an act of self-sacrifice, he finds meaning and compassion, ultimately dying a peaceful death. The novella's exploration of spiritual awakening and the importance of human connection resonates with readers even today. The story's simplicity and powerful message make it a compelling read, highlighting Tolstoy's mastery of storytelling.
Haji Murat
Lev Nikolaevič Tolstoy
Роман «Хаджи-Мурат» — последнее произведение Льва Толстого, написанное между 1896 и 1904 годами и опубликованное посмертно в 1912 году. История рассказывает о Хаджи-Мурате, знаменитом чеченском повстанческом лидере, который заключает неустойчивый союз с русскими, чтобы отомстить и спасти свою семью, захваченную имамом Шамилем. Роман исследует темы сопротивления и конфликта между христианской Россией и мусульманским Кавказом.
War and Peace
Leo Tolstoy
Set during the Napoleonic Wars, 'War and Peace' follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families, including the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys. The novel spans from 1805 to 1820 and is known for its realistic detail and psychological analysis. It explores the impact of Napoleon's invasion of Russia on the characters and society, delving into themes of love, family, war, and personal growth. The novel includes historical events such as the Battle of Austerlitz, the Treaties of Tilsit, and the French invasion of Russia, intertwining historical and fictional elements[3][4][5].
A Christmas carol
Jacqueline Goldfinger
Jacqueline Goldfinger's adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' is a family-friendly version that includes music, making it suitable for a wide range of audiences. This play retains the core themes and characters of the original while adding a musical element to enhance the storytelling and emotional impact.
Anna Karenina
Leo Tolstoy
Published in 1878, 'Anna Karenina' is a novel by Leo Tolstoy that delves into the complexities of Russian society in the late 19th century. The story centers around the extramarital affair between Anna Karenina, a married socialite, and Count Alexei Kirillovich Vronsky, which scandalizes the social circles of Saint Petersburg. The novel also follows the parallel story of Konstantin Levin, a wealthy landowner, and his struggles with marriage, faith, and managing his estate. Tolstoy explores a wide range of themes including love, loyalty, betrayal, hypocrisy, and the differences between rural and urban life. The novel is known for its detailed character development and its profound commentary on the human condition[2][4][5].
This is the second instalment of a three-part episode. Dickens. Tolstoy. Their names and reputations shake the ground – and so do their books, if you drop one. But whose legacy is more enduring? Whose vision truer and more relevant today? Should you embark on War and Peace or Our Mutual Friend? To battle it out, in 2018 Intelligence Squared brought two celebrated writers, John Mullan for Dickens and Simon Schama for Tolstoy, to our stage. They called on a cast of star actors, including Tom Hiddleston, to bring their arguments to life with readings from the authors’ finest works. The debate was chaired by author, playwright and broadcaster Bonnie Greer.
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