Book Review: Leo Tolstoy – War and Peace (Volumes 1 and 2)

Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace is widely regarded as one of the greatest novels of all time. Spanning four volumes in total, the novel covers numerous aspects of Russian society, politics, and military conflicts in the early 19th century, particularly the wars between Russia and Napoleonic France. However, the book’s real depth lies in its exploration of human behavior, ambitions, and desires through its rich characters.

Leo Tolstoy – War and Peace Book Review

Tolstoy is often compared to a sociologist, as he portrays society, people, and characters with such detail that it becomes clear he had a deep understanding of both the outer world and the inner workings of individuals. His ability to give profound depth to each character makes War and Peace one of the essential classics that everyone should read. The novel not only depicts 19th-century Russian society, aristocracy, political tensions, and military developments but also reveals truths about human nature that are still relevant today.

In many ways, War and Peace transcends its historical setting. The characters and the situations they face can be easily mirrored in today’s world. Figures like Helene, Anatole, and Prince Andrei exist in every era, making Tolstoy's work timeless.

My Thoughts as a Reader

At over 1,600 pages, War and Peace may seem intimidating due to its length, but I found it surprisingly easy to read. While some sections were slow, once you become accustomed to Tolstoy’s style and the way he delves into Russian society and its characters, it becomes an engaging and enjoyable read.

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The Plot of War and Peace

The novel begins in 1805, with rumors of an impending war between Russia and Napoleon. As these rumors circulate, Tolstoy introduces readers to the Russian aristocracy and their struggles for wealth, power, and status. He also provides a deeper look into Russian society.

One of the most interesting parts at the beginning of the novel is the death of Count Bezukhov. As the count lies on his deathbed, people flock to his house, hoping to secure a portion of his wealth. His illegitimate son, Pierre, and three daughters are among those vying for his inheritance. Tolstoy contrasts this scene with another, where a lavish celebration is being held at the home of the Rostovs. By juxtaposing death and celebration, Tolstoy highlights two of life’s fundamental realities.

One of the key characters, Marya, writes to her friend Julie Kuragina about the event:

“The great news of the day, the talk of all Moscow, is the death of old Count Bezukhov, and his inheritance. Just imagine, the three princesses have got almost nothing, Prince Vasily nothing at all, and everything has gone to Monsieur Pierre, who – to crown it all – has been acknowledged as a legitimate son and therefore as Count Bezukhov, owner of the finest fortune in Russia. They do say Prince Vasily played a very nasty part in this story and he has returned to Petersburg all down in the mouth. I confess I understand very little about all these matters – legacies and wills – but I do know that ever since the young man whom we all used to know as plain Monsieur Pierre became Count Bezukhov and owner of one of the largest fortunes in Russia I have been greatly amused to observe certain changes in the tone and manner of mammas burdened with daughters who need to be married, and of the young ladies themselves, towards that person – who, incidentally, has always seemed to me a miserable specimen of manhood.”

The novel then shifts to the state of a society on the brink of war. Shortly afterward, Russia enters into conflict with Napoleon’s France.

The wars depicted in War and Peace include:

• The War of the Third Coalition (1805): This conflict, described in the first volume of the novel, ended with significant victories for Napoleon over Austria and Russia.
• The Battle of Austerlitz (1805): One of the most famous battles in the novel, Austerlitz solidifies Napoleon's dominance in Europe.
• The Battle of Friedland (1807): This battle led to the Treaty of Tilsit and further expansion of Napoleon's empire in Europe.

Key characters such as Andrei Bolkonsky and Nikolai Rostov participate in these battles, with Andrei serving as an aide to General Kutuzov. Kutuzov, a historical figure, plays an essential role in the novel as a wise and experienced commander leading Russian forces against Napoleon.

The Connection Between Russia and France

Tolstoy’s portrayal of the Russian aristocracy is filled with French dialogue and references to French culture. The Russian upper class is deeply influenced by France—studying in French schools, adopting French customs, and frequently speaking French. While they admired France, they also found themselves fighting against its army. This duality adds a fascinating layer to the novel.

Following the war, a period of peace ensues, culminating in Napoleon and Tsar Alexander meeting and exchanging pleasantries, as if the death and destruction that came before had never happened. This deeply unsettles Nikolai Rostov, who reflects:

“Rostov stood there on the corner for quite some time, watching the celebrations from a distance. His anguished mind was seething with problems that couldn’t be resolved. His soul was alive with fearful doubts. He remembered Denisov with that new expression on his face and the way he seemed to have given in, and the hospital with all those torn-off arms and legs, the filth and disease. He remembered the stench of dead flesh in the hospital so vividly that he had looked round wondering where the smell was coming from. And he also kept remembering Napoleon with his little white hands, all smugness, and now being treated with affection and respect by the Emperor Alexander. What were all those torn-off legs and arms for, and why had those men been killed?”

A Quote from War and Peace

“Sometimes Pierre remembered what he had been told about soldiers in a shelter under fire with nothing to do, trying their best to keep busy and thus make the danger easier to bear. And Pierre pictured all men as soldiers like these, escaping from life through ambition, cards, law-making, women, little playthings, horses, politics, sport, wine, even government service. ‘Everything matters, nothing matters, it’s all the same. If I can only escape, one way or another!’ thought Pierre. ‘And not see it, the terrible it.’”

How Many Volumes Are in War and Peace?

Tolstoy originally wrote War and Peace in four volumes. However, most publishers release the book in two parts, so it is often sold as two separate books. Volumes 1 and 2 cover events between 1805 and 1812, while the remaining volumes continue the story.

Now lets look at the main characters:

Main Characters in War and Peace

1. Pierre Bezukhov: The illegitimate son of Count Kirill Bezukhov, Pierre inherits his father’s vast fortune after his death and becomes Count Bezukhov. Pierre is kind-hearted, intelligent, and morally upright, but he struggles to find his place in society and grapples with questions of life’s meaning throughout the novel. His journey is one of self-discovery and personal growth.
2. Andrei Bolkonsky: As the son of a wealthy and influential family, Andrei is one of the novel’s key characters. Initially driven by a desire for military glory, Andrei quickly becomes disillusioned with war and its brutality. He also grapples with personal issues, including an unhappy marriage and a tumultuous relationship with Natasha Rostova.
3. Nikolai Rostov: Nikolai starts the novel as a 20-year-old university student but leaves his studies to join the army and fight against Napoleon. His patriotism and bravery are evident throughout the novel, but he also faces challenges in balancing his duty to his country and his family.
4. Natasha Rostova: Natasha is a young, vibrant woman who matures over the course of the novel. She is initially portrayed as lively and carefree, but as she experiences love, heartbreak, and tragedy, her character deepens. Her romantic relationships, particularly with Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov, play a significant role in the plot, showing how love and loss shape her growth.
5. Helene Kuragin: A beautiful yet morally corrupt woman, Helene marries Pierre Bezukhov for his wealth and social status. Her manipulative and selfish nature creates significant tension in her relationships, especially with Pierre. She represents the superficiality and moral decay of the aristocratic class.
6. Anatole Kuragin: Helene’s equally corrupt brother, Anatole, is a reckless, hedonistic character who pursues his own desires without concern for the consequences. His affair with Natasha causes immense suffering for several characters and serves as a catalyst for the novel’s more tragic events.
7. Prince Vassily Kuragin: Helene and Anatole’s father, Prince Vassily, is a shrewd and opportunistic figure. He represents the cunning, power-hungry side of the Russian aristocracy, always scheming to enhance his family’s wealth and status.
8. Maria Bolkonsky: Andrei’s deeply religious and compassionate sister, Maria, struggles with her devotion to her father and her own personal desires. She serves as a moral counterpoint to many of the novel’s more worldly characters, and her relationship with Nikolai Rostov adds an element of tenderness and hope to the story.
9. Count Ilya Rostov: Natasha and Nikolai’s father, Count Rostov, is a well-meaning but financially irresponsible man. His mismanagement of the family’s finances leads to difficulties, but his love for his family is unquestionable.
10. General Kutuzov: A historical figure in Russian military history, General Kutuzov plays a key role in leading Russian forces during the Napoleonic wars. Tolstoy portrays him as a wise and pragmatic leader, whose strategies ultimately help Russia defeat Napoleon’s invasion.

Themes in War and Peace

War and Peace explores many themes that resonate deeply with readers, both in Tolstoy’s time and today:

• The Horrors of War: One of the novel’s central themes is the brutal, senseless nature of war. Tolstoy vividly describes the physical and emotional toll war takes on soldiers and civilians alike. While many characters, like Andrei and Nikolai, initially seek glory through military service, they come to realize that war is full of suffering and loss, with little true honor.
• Fate vs. Free Will: Throughout the novel, Tolstoy raises questions about the role of fate in human life. Characters often reflect on whether their choices are truly their own or whether they are swept along by forces beyond their control, such as war, societal expectations, or destiny. Pierre’s philosophical musings on life’s meaning are particularly illustrative of this theme.
• The Search for Meaning: Several characters, most notably Pierre, embark on journeys of self-discovery, seeking to understand the purpose of life. Pierre’s exploration of Freemasonry, spirituality, and moral responsibility reflects his quest to find a deeper meaning in a world filled with chaos and suffering.
• The Complexity of Human Nature: Tolstoy masterfully portrays the complexity of human emotions and behavior. His characters are multidimensional, with both virtues and flaws. They make mistakes, learn, grow, and change, making them feel incredibly real and relatable. Tolstoy captures the full range of human experiences, from love and joy to grief and despair.
• Love and Family: At its core, War and Peace is also a novel about love and family. The relationships between characters like Natasha and Pierre, Nikolai and Maria, and Andrei and his family provide a counterbalance to the novel’s darker themes of war and suffering. Tolstoy emphasizes the importance of love and human connection in giving life meaning.

Part 2: Book Review: Leo Tolstoy – War and Peace (Volumes 3 and 4)

Conclusion

War and Peace is a monumental work that captures the full spectrum of human existence—love, war, peace, family, society, and the eternal struggle to understand life’s meaning. While its vast scope and intricate narrative can be daunting, the novel’s rich characters and timeless themes make it an essential read for anyone interested in literature, history, or philosophy. Tolstoy’s genius lies in his ability to bring both the grand historical events and the intimate personal experiences to life in a way that resonates across centuries. Whether you're drawn to its depictions of war or its exploration of human nature, War and Peace offers something profound for every reader.