Definition

Proper noun A Russian writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest authors of all time. He is best known for his epic novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina. His later works often explored philosophical and moral themes.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • Leo Tolstoy's novels provide a detailed portrait of 19th-century Russian society.
  • The moral philosophy of Leo Tolstoy had a significant influence on figures like Mahatma Gandhi.
  • We are studying Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy in my literature class.

Advanced Usage

• "Tolstoyan" (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of Leo Tolstoy or his works, especially concerning his moral and philosophical ideas, such as nonviolent resistance, Christian anarchism, and simplicity of life.
  • He adopted a Tolstoyan lifestyle, renouncing his wealth and living as a peasant.

Variants and Related Words

• Tolstoy, Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy: Alternative names for the author.
• Tolstoyan (noun): A follower of Tolstoy's philosophical and religious teachings.

Synonyms

• Author of War and Peace
• Author of Anna Karenina

Related Phrases

• "Tolstoy's dilemma": A reference to the profound moral and existential questions explored in his works.
  • The character's search for meaning presented a classic Tolstoy's dilemma.

Noun

1. Russian author remembered for two great novels (1828-1910)