Interaction of natural and everyday images in Leo Tolstoy’s novel “Resurrection”

   The article deals with the semantic function of the interaction between natural and everyday images in Leo Tolstoy’s novel “Resurrection”.

   The novelty of the research is due to the fact that for the first time in literary studies, it reveals the problem of the relationship and interdependence of images from opposing spheres: nature and everyday life in the work of Leo Tolstoy.

   This allows us to address the urgent issues of Tolstoy’s worldview of the late period of his literary work, based on the idea of the confrontation between nature and civilization, living life and social conditions that limit it. The article analyzes the key fragments of the novel, which present the adjoining natural and everyday images. The image of nature, as a rule, is contrasted to the domestic environment. This technique of contrast is used by Leo Tolstoy not only to emphasize the unnaturalness of social laws, existing in the Russian reality and the living conditions of the poor, but also to depict the changes in the soul of the main character, Dmitry Nekhludov. The beginning of the novel shows the luxury in which the nobility live, thus distancing themselves both from nature and from God, who appeals to their conscience. The transformation in Nekhludov’s soul is emphasized by the change in the interaction of nature and everyday life. The description of his living conditions fades into the background, the protagonist feels his connection with nature, experiences spiritual elevation and realizes the Divine truth. He overcomes this confrontation between nature and everyday life and defines his life path as an active service to people.

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