War and Peace (Oxford World's Classics)

"War and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy, translated by Louise and Aylmer Maude, and edited by Amy Mandelker, is a historical novel that intertwines the lives of private and public individuals during the Napoleonic Wars and the French invasion of Russia. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Love and Relationships: The novel explores the complexities of love, family, and social relationships. Characters like Pierre Bezukhov, Andrei Bolkonsky, and Natasha Rostov navigate through various romantic entanglements and personal crises.

2. War and History: The novel delves into the historical context of the Napoleonic Wars, including key battles like Austerlitz, Borodino, and the occupation of Moscow. Tolstoy's depiction of war is both epic and brutal, highlighting the human cost of conflict.

3. Philosophy and Existentialism: Tolstoy incorporates philosophical discussions throughout the novel, particularly in the later chapters. These sections delve into the nature of historical events, national movements, and the origin of war. The novel also explores themes of free will and the interconnectedness of historical elements.

Plot Summary

The novel begins in 1805 in St. Petersburg, where the fear of Napoleon's war is palpable. The main characters are introduced at a party, including Pierre Bezukhov, Andrei Bolkonsky, and the Kuragin and Rostov families. The story follows these characters as they navigate through the tumultuous period of the Napoleonic Wars.

• Andrei Bolkonsky: He goes to the Austrian front under General Kutuzov and is injured at the Battle of Austerlitz. He returns home to his wife, Lise, who dies during childbirth. Andrei becomes disillusioned with life and eventually rejects Natasha Rostov after discovering her infidelity.

• Pierre Bezukhov: He marries Helene Kuragina, who is unfaithful to him. Pierre becomes disillusioned with his marriage and joins the Freemasons, which influences his personal and business life. He eventually consoles Natasha Rostov and falls in love with her.

• Natasha Rostov: She is a central character whose life is marked by romantic entanglements. She initially falls in love with Andrei but is later involved with Anatole Kuragin. After a disastrous elopement attempt, Natasha realizes her feelings for Pierre and eventually marries him.

Critical Reception

"War and Peace" is widely regarded as one of the greatest novels ever written. Critics praise Tolstoy's unique blend of historical detail and philosophical insight. Isaac Babel once said, "If the world could write by itself, it would write like Tolstoy," highlighting the novel's ability to capture the essence of historical events with a deep understanding of human nature.

The novel's complexity and length (361 chapters) have made it a challenging but rewarding read for many. It is often cited as a masterpiece of realist literature, offering a nuanced portrayal of life during the Napoleonic era. The novel's philosophical chapters, which discuss historical events and the nature of war, have been particularly influential in shaping modern historical and philosophical thought.

Edition Notes

The Oxford World's Classics edition of "War and Peace" includes the translation by Louise and Aylmer Maude, which is considered one of the most authoritative translations of the novel. The edition also includes an introduction by Amy Mandelker, providing context and insights into the historical and literary significance of the novel.