L. N. Tolstoy wrote War and Peace between 1863 and 1869, with the complete four-volume edition published in 1869. Initially condemned by critics, the novel achieved immense popularity, leading to rapid sales of its editions. It is a classic epic novel depicting Russian society in the early decades of the 19th century. Alongside a multitude of realistically portrayed characters set against historical events, it vividly presents figures such as General Kutuzov and Napoleon. The narrative includes detailed accounts of the Napoleonic Wars between Russia and France from 1805 to 1812, notably the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805, the Battle of Borodino, and the French occupation of Moscow. The main characters are two nobles, Andrei Bolkonsky and Pierre Bezukhov, along with members of the Rostov family. Pierre Bezukhov embodies Tolstoy's philosophical ideas, often providing insightful commentary on the political and social dynamics of his time, as well as on significant historical figures. The novel has been successfully adapted into film multiple times.
Tolstoi Books






Resurrection
- 496 pages
- 18 hours of reading
Resurrection proceeds from brothel to court-room, stinking cells to offices of state, luxury apartments to filthy life in Siberia. The ultimate crisis of moral responsibility embroils not only the famous author and his hero, but also you and me. Can we help resolve the eternal issues of law and imprisonment?
Legenden des 19. und 20. Jahrhunderts
- 493 pages
- 18 hours of reading
Die schönsten Erzählungen von Tolstoi
Neue Folge
Tolstoj racconta
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading

