Leo Tolstoy, known for his exemplary family values and literary masterpieces, embarked on a journey of transformation in the 1880s. This journey is said to have altered the course of his life, beliefs, and relationships. A notable family man who once revered love, marriage, and spiritual growth, Tolstoy's evolution led him to reevaluate the very principles that had guided him.
At 50, Tolstoy underwent an inner metamorphosis that reshaped his worldview. A notable shift occurred in his point of view towards the Orthodox Church. Tolstoy became disillusioned with the Orthodox Church, and his perception of marriage as a sacred bond between man and woman also changed
The change in his views extended to his perception of private property. Driven by his evolving philosophy, Tolstoy sought to leave his wealth and embarked on a journey that saw him adopt the lifestyle of a peasant. He started wearing his now-iconic peasant shirt and engaged in manual labor on his estate's fields.
His transformation didn't come without conflict. One of the most notable points of contention was his decision to relinquish copyright to his works. His wife, Sofya Andreevna, who had been his steadfast partner, opposed this move vehemently. The decision had significant financial implications for the family and raised concerns about the inheritance of their numerous children.
Vladimir Chertkov, Tolstoy's admirer and personal assistant, played an important role in supporting the writer's new direction. Chertkov suggested that Tolstoy leave his family, as he believed his evolving philosophy was not understood by them. The strained relationship between Chertkov and Sofya further added to the family's tumultuous journey.
The conflicts within the family were marked by emotional outbursts. In the summer of 1882, Sofya wrote in her diary about Tolstoy's fervent desire to leave the family. An episode ensued where Tolstoy stormed out with a single bag of personal belongings but returned upon learning of Sofya's impending childbirth.
While Tolstoy contemplated leaving again years later, he never acted upon it. He even composed a farewell letter to Sofya, reflecting his ongoing internal struggle. Although he chose to stay, the tensions and complexities within the family persisted.
In his later years, Tolstoy turned down the Nobel Prize in Literature and shied away from extravagant celebrations of his 80th birthday. His legacy was deeply intertwined with the evolution of his ideals, the conflicts he navigated, and the lasting impact of his literary contributions.
As Tolstoy's journey continues to inspire, his life is an example of the intricate nature of personal transformation, the clashes of ideals, and the indelible mark of a literary legacy that resonates through the ages.
