Review of 'War and Peace'

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

The one thing that seems to be notable about this book is it's size though in literary circles it is admired on it's obvious merits. An epic story of the advance of Napoleon to Moscow in the war of 1812 the book follows a number of individuals in how the army's advance effects them all. Interspersed amongst the later part of the story Tolstoy introduces the periodic political chapter (the last chapter, the Second Epilogue, in particular) talking about the futility of war and the influence of power and inevitability (or the lack thereof) on history. <p>The individuals of the four principal families of the novel (the Rostovs, the Bezukhovs, the Bolkonskys, and the Kuragins) are all from the elite class in and around Moscow. The story begins as we follow indviduals from these families as they search for meaning, and love, in their lives. In short order the various battles preceeding 1812 occur and begin to effect everyone. The story continues along these lines with the individuals more and more effected by the wars which occupy chapters intersperced amongst the images of Moscow balls, dinners and political intrigue.</p><p>Despite Tolstoys often heavy-handed politics and distorting of various historical situations to fit these politics I found this novel very readable and quite interesting – despite its length. The characters are, despite their lofty position in their society, easy to relate to and bring a great deal of realism to the novel. Tolstoy's handling of the battle scenes is terrific in showing the disorganisation and futility of war (once again with the political statements).</p><p>A true classic of literature. Note: I read the paperback “Oxford World's Classics” version of this novel (1983) which also included Tolstoys short essay “Some Words About War and Piece” as well as maps and a BRIEF description of the main characters.</p>

Rating: “Nearly perfect, but not quite”


Genre: Classic