52 pages • 1 hour read
The Kreutzer Sonata
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Book Brief
128
Novella • Fiction
Russia • 1880s
1889
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Kreutzer Sonata follows Pozdnychev, a Russian nobleman, who recounts the disintegration of his marriage and his obsessive jealousy, which leads him to murder his wife. The story addresses themes of jealousy, morality, and the conflict between social expectations and personal ethics. Sensitive topics include violence, domestic abuse, and infidelity.
Mysterious
Dark
Challenging
Contemplative
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
31,485 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Leo Tolstoy's The Kreutzer Sonata elicits strong reactions due to its intense exploration of jealousy, marital strife, and moral dilemmas. Some readers commend its psychological depth and raw emotional insights, while others find its themes dated and Tolstoy's approach heavy-handed. Nevertheless, it remains a provocative and compelling read that challenges societal norms.
Who Should Read The Kreutzer Sonata?
The ideal reader for Leo Tolstoy's The Kreutzer Sonata is someone who appreciates moral and philosophical debates, enjoys exploring the intricacies of human relationships, and has an interest in 19th-century Russian literature. If you like Anna Karenina by Tolstoy or Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert, you might enjoy this novella.
31,485 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Pozdnychev’s Wife
Pozdnychev’s Wife
The unnamed spouse of Pozdnychev who plays a crucial role in the narrative as both a love interest and a source of contention, seen through the lens of Pozdnychev's biased perceptions. She has a talent for music and is depicted as a complex figure in the story.
Troukhatchevsky
Troukhatchevsky
A young, skilled musician educated in Paris, whose presence sparks tension in the narrative. Known for his musical abilities, he represents modern influences and cultural shifts in 19th-century Russian society.
128
Novella • Fiction
Russia • 1880s
1889
Adult
18+ years
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