This work marks the author's movement from the pursuit of aesthetic ideals toward matters of religious and philosophical consequence. The poignant text describes Tolstoy's heartfelt reexamination of Christian orthodoxy and subsequent spiritual awakening. Generations of readers have been inspired by this timeless account of one man's struggle for faith and meaning in life. Unabridged excerpt from A Confession and What I Believe, published by Oxford University Press, London, 1921.
Here's a sample of other books in this Dover category
Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy Tolstoy's novel of spiritual regeneration recounts the sins of a young Russian nobleman and his attempts in later life to redress those transgressions. Resurrection articulates the author's contempt for the social injustices of the world.
The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Short Stories by Leo Tolstoy Three great stories offer profound insights into human behavior and motivation. Title story plus "How Much Land Does a Man Need?" and "The Death of Ivan Ilych." Explanatory footnotes.
The Kingdom of God Is Within You by Leo Tolstoy, Constance Garnett The soul-searching book that inspired Gandhi to embrace the concept of passive resistance, Tolstoy's 1894 polemic clearly outlines a radical, well-reasoned revision of traditional Christian thinking.
Cosmic Consciousness: A Study in the Evolution of the Human Mind by Richard Maurice Bucke This pioneering study in mysticism explores the phenomenon of transcendent realization, or illumination. Its numerous case studies offer intriguing, real-life particulars of individuals who experienced personal epiphanies.
Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales, Allan Ross, Allan Ross How to live a holy life in the secular world is the focus of this Christian masterpiece. It offers clear, direct advice about praying, resisting temptation, and maintaining devotion to God.
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, Louise and Aylmer Maude A tumultuous tale of passion and self-discovery in 1870s Russia chronicles a society woman's adulterous affair and a landowner's unconventional quest for a meaningful existence.
