@@youngphysicist9930 you are correct, they all are great authors but among all the authors these 4 stand out. William Shakespeare as the greatest playwright (and one of best poets), Leo Tolstoy as the greatest novelist, Fyodor Dostoevsky as the greatest psychological writer and Rabindranath as the greatest modern poet (most of the western world don't know much about Tagore and how great he is since a major part of his best works are yet to be translated into English, French, etc.)
@@Insatiableviel007 i know the greatness of rabindranath tagore, i have read most of his plays,and they are just soo good! My Parents are bengali so i know a lot about him
Hello again, Drunzo. Many wise words about this great book, which I have read and re-read many times. Before I first read it, my image of it was of a dusty classic that one ought to read, simply because everyone else has read it and talks about it. As I read into it, I discovered that it is not the least bit 'dusty' at all. It is a testament to humanity, glowing with passion and vitality and love of life. The love stories in it, the encounters between the characters, are just wonderful. And it's not just the people, even a roof sparkling in the sunshine after a rainstorm seems more alive, because Tolstoy is describing it and he can do that better than anyone else.
I just started reading War and Peace, which I've wanted to read since first seeing the wonderful and extremely moving musical, Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812. I'm taking it very slowly so that I can relish it and live in it. I'm only planning on reading a chapter a day, which means it will take me just a few days short of a year to complete this journey. Thanks to your referencing of it here, I just purchased Napoleon: A Life to read alongside it as a companion to War and Peace. Thanks so much for that recommendation!
This is a wonderful vlog! Thank you. Your comments are intelligent, good analysis. Your love of literature is evident. I look forward to your future TH-cam pieces.
I am finishing it up now! My research says the Anthony Briggs translation is the best - that is the one I think you have. The Penguin editions seem to be all Anthony Briggs ones.
Thank you. I really enjoyed this video, your "tongue being twisted and not knowing how to explain how brilliant the book is" definitely is the best way to describe something great haha. Those "ineffable" things in life. Thank you for an informative video, I'm currently at page 100 something and I'm mesmerized by his art.
How large is the print in this particular version that you read? I'm looking for a version that has a large enough print. I totally agree with you about the book otherwise. I don't like Russia due to the recent events in Ukraine, but I have to say that in my opinion, this is the best book I've ever read.
this was actually really helpful! i've been wanting to read war and peace but i'm honestly really intimidated by it. these tips will surely help me, thank you!
🇬🇧 Hello 👋, I’ve got this on my Birthday wish list, which I know I’ve got so looking forward to receiving this on Sunday 📖. I will try and read slowly so I take it all in and will annotate it, I find if I do this I take it in more.
Thanks so much for this video! I've been wanting to read this book for a while now, because my favorite musical is based off war and peace and I've got to know how the story ends 😅
I love Leo Tolstoy ever since I picked up his 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' in my uni days. I've been thinking about reading this for the longest time, but it's too thick for my liking. I'm a 300pp or less reader. So, anything that exceeds that is a no-go for me. But, perhaps, I'm going to change my mind and slowly work on this soon.
you said it has 1469 pages why does amazon say its 1440 pages?, is your diffrent?, just wondering how many books is that verstion of war and peace equiverent to?, like how many books with 500 pages could you stand beside it?
HI Drunzo. Thank you for the video. It has convinced me to start the journey. What translation have your read? Do you have a recommendation on translations?
Pretty sure most people here actually want to read the book but this book is in the russian highschool curiculum and you need to read this 1,2k pages book to not fail highschool send help pls
Readable classics?? Not so sure about that dude. It is tiring and a slog sometimes, though ultimately rewarding. A lot (most) of my friends have given up on it after a few pages.
This was such a great video! I’m a co-host of the Dickens versus Tolstoy debate/book club, and we’re reading War and Peace in April and May! I’m incredibly excited, especially since Anna Karenina is my favorite book I’ve ever read! Hearing your praises for War and Peace makes me even more excited to read it! I hope you enjoy Anna Karenina whenever you pick it up! :)
Thank you! I'm actually a big fan of your Dickens vs. Tolstoy debate club as I think it is such a cool concept (though I am ashamed to say that I have somehow not yet read any Dickens) and I am eagerly awaiting the War & Peace debate! I cannot give enough praise towards the book. Despite its incredible length, there is hardly a dull moment. I can't wait to read Anna Karenina next and the praise you have given it has only made me more excited!
@@drunzo363 Oh I'm so glad!! Don't be ashamed! You have some wonderful Dickensian charm ahead of you! I'm also eagerly awaiting the War & Peace debate! That's exactly how I feel about Anna Karenina and it's length. I wouldn't remove a single punctuation mark! Every word has a purpose! I can't wait to hear what you think of it!
I’m wondering what translation you read. I have the Everyman’s Library edition with the original Maude translation (as opposed to the ‘revised’ Maude translation) on the way. I have already realized I want to learn more about the era in history. Thanks for the tips!
Beyond the Napoleonic wars, I would say it is far more important to have a basic understanding of Russian history, especially in the 19th century. Throughout the book, Tolstoy was taking sides on major political events in Russia that were still extremely relevant when the book was written 50+ years after the war. A lot of the political figures in the book are real people. Spiransky, for example, was the father of Russian Liberalism and issues like serfdom were still relevant in Russia in the 1860s when the book was written (serfdom ending in 1862 in a very controversial way). I took a lot of Russian history classes in college and it is insane how much I got from those in this book. Tolstoy never shied away from controversial topics in this book. This book can be viewed as both a massive criticism of Russian society and at the same time a love letter to it. I'd very much suggest reading a timeline of 19th century Russia before reading this book, as well as having Google ready for names that sound real.
Thanks for this. I have a GED and no formal education, but I very much enjoy literature. As a FedEx driver in a very remote area I have lots of audiobook time. I listened to Crime And Punishment last year and have been actually reading War And Peace year as time permits. While Dostoyevsky is very readable, and Tolstoy even more so, I have had serious difficulty in keeping track of characters mostly due to the fact that Slavic names all sound the same to me. I've not had this problem with English authors.
Zane, I really respect you because you don't mind saying that you didn't get a higher education. You're clearly an intelligent person. I didn't get through the 10th grade because I got pregnant by an older guy,. That's not exactly the point. I just hate that people who think we're not as intelligent as they are. Blah blah blah! Today's college degree is worthless unless you have a medical or law degree. Sorry for writing, you just touched me with your comment. Have a blessed day and stay safe and was it my imagination, or didn't he say in his first opening sentences, he said " EPITOME" like that interview with Shia LeBeouf, when asked about working with Michael Douglas ( not sure about that) , he pronounced it Ep_uhh, TOME! I guess it's a little pet peeve I've got,,, like Weird AL has too. I hate when someone uses the word " Literally" wrong. Love his video of "Word Crimes", a spoof of " Blurred Lines",, Anyway, felt good to talk because I am always by myself.
You could go to a bookstore or library and take a picture of the couple pages summarizing major characters …they usually also give guidance about the patronymic and diminutive forms of the names…then you can refer to the list when you hit a confusing name…that helps a lot!
im 12 years old, but im very excited to read this one! ive started reading some classics like picture of dorian gray or 1984, so this seems very interesting to continue knowing more literature!
War and Peace is still pending in my TBR, although I love reading Lev Tolstoy. Last year, I read Anna Karenina and at the beginning of this year I read The Death of Ivan Ilyich. Both of them were astounding. By the way, good video and you have a new subscriber. Greetings from Mexico. 👋
Reading War and Peace has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. However, the tips you give here are definitely warranted - the characters introduced in the first volume are no joke! Tolstoy also has a lesser known work called "A Calendar of Wisdom"; he apparently believed it was his most important work to humanity. Would recommend checking it out if you haven't :)
I really agree with familiarizing yourself with the Napoleonic wars. I first tried reading War and Peace a few years ago and put it down. Since then, I've watched so many documentaries about the Napoleonic wars and I'm currently enjoying War and Peace a lot.
reading the count of monte Cristo right now, my first "classic" book read. I'm loving it, and looking forward to my next. I've definitely found it! thanks so much. They both have to do with the napoleonic era too which I wouldn't have known
I’m 63. I have read many of Tolstoy’s novel and short stories decades ago. Indeed his writing is wonderfully compassionate. I started reading war and peace three years ago, got one hundred and thirty pages into it then got side tracked. I decided this fall to tackle it again but first wanting to check out people on TH-cam reviewing war and peace. I came across your post and the biography of Napoleon you read. I thought that would be a good preview read before war & peace. I just finished it today. What a read!!! What history! What a man!!! I would have liked to have met him. Yeah, he was a fallen human with issues, but what a fascinating person. I’m now ready to embark on war and peace. Thanks for the tip on Napoleons biography. 😎
i read 'crime and punishment' earlier this year and I'm currently reading 'war and peace' and one thing that helps through russian novels is character list! (characters are referred more than one name) I'm making one right now and it's so helpful with later chapters. i have no knowledge historically whatsoever and I'll definitely read some historical context that'll help me through the book. and yes i agree! it's super readable and I'm loving it so far
John Steinbeck said “people only hate people, because they don’t know them enough” and Tolstoy understood this. You can see it in his writing and his signature clemency he has for human nature. If you want to check out Tolstoy, and get a feel for him, all his short stories are superb and exemplify his philosophy and his prose perfectly.
I've always been so curious if a native Russian language speaker gets an even deeper experience from this book, since we English speakers are reading a translated version. One's native language has so many nuances that are not just understood by the brain, but felt by the heart, if born into that language. I suppose only a person with equal Russian and English understanding, as well as feeling, could tell us.
i’ve read w&p in both russian and english - i do think the impression is different. in russian, it reads as extremely familiar, and there were many times throughout the novel when i’d have to slow down and make sure i didn’t skip the descriptions, because my brain would go “oh yeah, i definitely know what this is, i don’t need to have it explained to me in 4 more paragraphs”. there are many scenes and chapters that capture the “russian spirit” and draw parallels to other works of russian literature (at least they did in my mind), which is what makes them so familiar. things like natasha singing and dancing at her uncle’s are vivid because i know exactly what she’s singing and dancing. another instance of this would be the way moscow and st petersburg are quite directly portrayed with street names and everything - for example, around the middle of the book when pierre is returning from the rostovs and sees a comet, tolstoy names the street he’s on and in which direction the comet flies, so i was picturing the same street i know so well. the best way i’d describe the experience is - your extended family is at the christmas table and your grandpa who’s usually really quiet suddenly remembers a long-forgotten story from his youth, and you listen in awe as something so familiar suddenly becomes fantastical and strange. i re-read W&P in english with my english-speaking friend and found it harder to picture the scenes in my head, for some reason. the book felt less atmospheric. at the same time, i found it easier and lighter to read in english, but then this is a feature of reading in english in general, in my experience. apologies for the wall of text, but i figured if it’s been 2 months and no one’s answered, i might as well go more in-depth 🤓
I had a couple of dry runs with War and Peace when I was younger. Now I'm 71 and just got my copy in the mail today. After listening to you and to Dickens versus Tolstoy I'm ready to read it again from the beginning. I've already read up about the War of 1812.
I was going through the most difficult time in my life and reading is my favourite passion. So I decided to read such a challenging classic. I didn't know then the effect that the book would cause in my heart. I don't want to give anything away but the story of Prince Andrei and Natasha was the most beautiful piece of literature that I've read in my entire life. I felt like Tolstoy was talking about me and what I went through. Of all my friends and family who tried to help me no one understood how I was feeling like this man who wrote this book one hundred and fifty years ago. It made me feel alive to know how wonderful literature can be and how this man not only knew how I felt but also could describe my feelings in a way that I never could. I think of this man as if he were a father to me who rescued me from despair. Good literature is magic and allows the most creative people to share their stories with us. Art is inspired by life and this kind of art saved mine.
I just finished reading Anna Karenina, my first Tolstoy novel. I think many of the points you made about what makes Tolstoy a great writer and worth reading translate between these two stories. I was interested in War and Peace before, but this has secured its spot on the 2023 TBR. Thanks!
Tolstoy's short stories are some of my personal favourites. About two years ago, I read Anna Karenina and definitely see myself picking up War and Peace this spring. Thank you for the encouragement! :)
Just finished it a few weeks ago and I totally agree. Way more readable than I thought it would be. Took me around 3 months but it was worth it. Once you start reading you will always want to know what happens next: Did X character die?? Does Natasha love X character? Do these characters marry? These along with really interesting reflections on the course of history, that are mostly not that difficult to understand.
Thank you so much for the tips. I didn't realise that some of the characters had multiple names. I do hope to read War and Peace one day. Oh the tip to get familiar with the Napoleonic Wars is another great tip.
I'm currently halfway through War and Peace (same translation you showed). I love it, too and think it is very readable. A lot of people complain about the battle scenes being too lengthy, but I haven't felt that yet.
The advice about keeping track of the characters seems especially useful. I began it a couple of years ago and set it aside at p. 200 - probably due to life circumstances and not anything concerning the book itself, which I was enjoying. (I shall have to start at the beginning if I take it up again.) I read _Anna K_ years ago, and just before the failed W&P attempt his _Resurrection_ which is a wonderful novel.
Read it about 10 years ago right after I retired. Not sure I could read it again at 74 with my inability to stay focused now. It was well worth the effort then. I agree 100% with everything you say here. My only criticism at the time of reading was too much war and not enough peace. The characters are well worth the effort however. Modern readers probably don't have the patience for this now since our world moves much too fast. There are several good film versions too. One from 1972 and a more recent one from 2016. PBS productions I believe? Don't watch the Hollywood 1956 version. Poor Audrey Hepburn! Thanks for your comments. The 2016 version is being shown on PBS right now. I have been finding it actually very moving. Maybe I was Russian in a previous life? Finally, a minor theme I really notice in this 2016 version is forgiveness. Marya and her father, and, Dolakov and Pierre. There will be 2 or 3 more by the end. Oh boy, I think I'm addicted! Bob R., Columbus, OH
I really enjoyed reading this book. Like you said it is very readable. Although, I think one of the main protagonists, Pierre, was a bit annoying. I enjoyed parts of the book that is, I guess, the author's love letter to the Field Marshall Kutuzov. I developed the same affection for the Russian general. From a literary perspective, he was a foil to egomaniacal Napoleon.
Great review of this lovey classic, one of my favourite books. Also if you can find an English translation of the Under the Yoke (Под игото is the original title in Bulgarian) I strongly recommend it, a masterpiece of the Bulgarian literature.
John Steinbeck said “people only hate people, because they don’t know them enough” and Tolstoy understood this. You can see it in his writing and his signature clemency he has for human nature. If you want to check out Tolstoy, and get a feel for him, all his short stories are superb and exemplify his philosophy and his prose perfectly.
I love War and Peace, have personally read this book ten times! I could be perfectly content in a solitary confinement cell with War and Peace on my bookshelf. The best way to read this book is imagine famous Hollywood actors as characters in the book. For me this happened after a couple rereads, but it became so much more enjoyable to see famous actors as characters in Tolstoy's masterpiece. Next time you read this book try visualizing Cary Elwes as Prince Andrei, young Keanu Reeves as Nikolai Rostov, young Mel Gibson as Pierre(this actor being such a religious stoic, makes the character just lift off the pages especially during the free mason chapters and his spiritual awakenings during the Moscow occupation 1812), Patrick Stewart as Prince Vasili Kuragin(OMG this was like perfect actor for this character), and so many more. I may just have to read this book again for an 11th time to enjoy the grand movie experience of pages allover again.
Bro...I bought this book back in 2016-Constance Garnett Translation- and never got to read it, now I am a bookworm that’s read tomes like The Decline And Fall Of The Roman Empire,The Wealth Of Nations and a plethora of other huge volume books but this WAR & PEACE book really intimidates me and I really don’t know why heyy. I started the book in August 2020 but only read 12 pages and thought I would come back coz then I was reading Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment along with The Wealth Of Nations...my biggest mistake🙈 and never went back to reading it...I’m currently reading Katherine Graham’s Autobiography and upon finishing it jumping straight to WAR & PEACE...I wanna close 2021 with it being my biggest reading project. I will revert to your channel when I’m about to start on it...I haven’t read anything on Napoleon yet and would like to delve into one someday,thanks for the great tips brother. Much respect ✌🏿 from Soweto,South Africa 🇿🇦
Dude, am I the only person out here who found War and Peace boring? It never seems to get to any people below the status of prince. It’s all gentility. Granted, I only read like 600 pages, so….
I was searching for the answer to this same question and found out from a reply to a commenter that he read the Anthony Briggs translation. I recently bought this translation but have not read it yet. When I read it years ago, it was in the Maude translation. Maude knew Tolstoy personally and was steeped in Tolstoy's world view. But later, when I compared this translation with the original Russian, I was shocked to find an elementary error! Tolstoy's language is rich and educated, but it is also lucid and plain. He states his meaning with directness, without ambiguity, without concealing his thoughts or playing any games with the reader. It seems to me that Tolstoy's Russian translates very readily into English, or probably most languages. But of course, taste in translations will differ from person to person. To my ear now, the Maude translation sounds a bit more flowery and formal than Tolstoy's plain, sober, sane directness.
Would you recommend doing the same for Les Misérables, but instead of reading about the Napoleonic Wars I should read about the French Revolution, right?
The main question is how can individuals decide the fate of nations. Prince Andrey sees a minister of war and says this man decides the fate of nations. One man? -this is what it looks like to have actually read the text. Familiarity with it. Being able to quote it reflects ive read it..
I like this, just starting W&P, thanks! I might also add, in addition to having a character list that you note the page number where each first appeared with a description. When Tolstoy introduces a character, he definitely introduces them but sometimes I forget.
@@themandarin9493 I read one part of it and I found it to be very good ,considering that I do often find reading books a bit of a chore,I thought so far this was a solid and surprisingly easy read,I want to read the rest of it as well but I rarely feel like reading stuff.I think it is worth getting into. Keep in mind I have only read Book 1 Part 1 and I’ve been told it only gets better from there.
You're the first person i came across who recommended getting some idea about the Napoleanic Wars before reading War and Peace and I'm really grateful for that. I'll probably get the same book you mentioned, sounds interesting.
It’s such an incredible book , the people are alive , you’re with them on the battle field , in their drawing rooms. Wonderful It’s engrossing and full of life and death , atmosphere , philosophy, …
Thank you. I have been struggling to read and want to read War and Peace. It has been a 4 years struggle. I only have 25% down now. However, I am now at a part that is soo interesting to me that I may now speed through. I love the society parts a lot but the war parts I do not like as much but it is great of course. The last big book I read was 10-15 years ago. Before the iphone age. I dont have many classics under my belt.
I read Anna Karenina last year during lockdown and it was incredible, and taught me so much (and I completely agree about his magic for characterisation). Tolstoy really is a master storyteller who has helped me get over the fear of big books, which I'm sure we've all have at some stage. I have since bought some chunkier books. Regards Don Quioxte and War and Peace, do you recommend any specific translations? I'm sure you've got a lot lined up, but you should do something on your love of film. I, too, am obsessed with cinemas and you should definitely do like a “favourite films tag” or “film recs” or “films I watched this month” etc.
I have only read Don Quixote and War & Peace once so I can only offer my perspective on those translations. I have not personally done much research on translations for War & Peace so I can't say for sure what the authoritative translation is, however, the translation by Anthony Briggs was immaculate. I enjoyed the book through and through and would personally recommend the translation. In regards to Don Quixote, I read the translation by John Rutherford (the Penguin Classics paperback edition). There were moments in the book that were dull and I do not know whether to attribute that fact to the writing itself or the translation. Though I will say that overall, Don Quixote is one of the best books I have ever read and I hold it in even higher reverence for the impact its had on world literature. In regards to other translations, I hear wonderful things about the translation by Edith Grossman. Her translation is under the ASIN of 0060934344 (the cover is of a knight's helmet on a red background). I plan on reading that translation when I re-read Don Quixote. I'm glad you brought up film because I do plan on making videos about my love of film in the future. I also I am trying to look for ways of blending my love for books and film as well. I'm currently reading a book that is cherished by one of my favorite directors and I plan on making a video in regards to that soon. Thank you for the comment!
Great video! How was your experience with the clothbound edition? I have a clothbound and an Oxford edition so I’m debating which one I’d use to read it.
Thanks, Christelle! No complaints regarding the clothbound edition, though I did notice that some of the cover began to fade from my hands holding it for so long.
I'm on book two and I'm worried I won't make it. I don't mind the length and the writing isn't difficult. It's the characters I can't follow. I'm listening by audio, and I don't know how to engage with this book effectively in way that isn't like a homework assignment.
Thanks for this content! I'm currently reading Anna Karenina, my very first Tolstoy. I do agree with how he writes like he brings the characters to life. I do hope I could get to read War and Peace in the future!
I am assuming that you must have completed reading Anna Karenina so I just wanted to ask a small question. Without judging anyone, I am just a sort of person who finds it hard to look past infidelity, betrayal. So do you think it's worth reading for a person like me as well?
This year I read it for the first time. I read the same clothbound edition of the Briggs translation that you are holding up. Like you I loved it. However, every once in a while Briggs throws in a British expression that could be confusing and distracting, like saying an army unit is “at sixes and sevens.” I got a copy of the Maude translation and the newer one by Pevear and Volokonsky. The old Maude I found (from 1942!) has very helpful maps, but like Briggs it has occasional weird expressions like a kid who is a “sharp little thing” being referred to as a “slyboots.” I’m about 300 pages into the Pevear and Volokonsky now. It seems to be more faithful to the original, more literal, with more details that are slurred over in the other translations. Some people say that makes it more awkward to read but I’m finding it quite enjoyable even though this is my second time reading W&P this year!
Thanks! I'm half way through, I'm really liking it, and I have another tip. The thing that's helped me the most is having a basic understanding of Russian history from this period like: What is a serf? If you don't know then a lot of the serf liberation stuff is going to drag you down. What are icons? Pilgrims? What are the different parts of the Empire? If you're from the USA like me you probably didn't get a lot of that in middle school geography, you know?
About tolstoy not condemning people for the bad things they do. i've only read 2 great russian classics. I've finished Crime and Punishment and i've read about 50 pages of War & Peace. And one sentiment i get from both these books is about what you said, 'To love man is to love man FOR thier faults, not in spite of them or beside them.'
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Leo Tolstoy, along with Fyodor Dostoevsky, Rabindranath Tagore and William Shakespeare belong to the greatest among the great authors of all time.
Dont forget charles dickens and jane austen
And John Milton’s Paradise Lost
The truth is the list is very big, Goethe,Dante,Cervantes,Dumas,Proust,Twain we cant ignore any of them
@@youngphysicist9930 you are correct, they all are great authors but among all the authors these 4 stand out. William Shakespeare as the greatest playwright (and one of best poets), Leo Tolstoy as the greatest novelist, Fyodor Dostoevsky as the greatest psychological writer and Rabindranath as the greatest modern poet (most of the western world don't know much about Tagore and how great he is since a major part of his best works are yet to be translated into English, French, etc.)
@@Insatiableviel007 i know the greatness of rabindranath tagore, i have read most of his plays,and they are just soo good! My Parents are bengali so i know a lot about him
Hello again, Drunzo. Many wise words about this great book, which I have read and re-read many times. Before I first read it, my image of it was of a dusty classic that one ought to read, simply because everyone else has read it and talks about it. As I read into it, I discovered that it is not the least bit 'dusty' at all. It is a testament to humanity, glowing with passion and vitality and love of life. The love stories in it, the encounters between the characters, are just wonderful. And it's not just the people, even a roof sparkling in the sunshine after a rainstorm seems more alive, because Tolstoy is describing it and he can do that better than anyone else.
I just started reading War and Peace, which I've wanted to read since first seeing the wonderful and extremely moving musical, Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812. I'm taking it very slowly so that I can relish it and live in it. I'm only planning on reading a chapter a day, which means it will take me just a few days short of a year to complete this journey. Thanks to your referencing of it here, I just purchased Napoleon: A Life to read alongside it as a companion to War and Peace. Thanks so much for that recommendation!
This is a wonderful vlog! Thank you. Your comments are intelligent, good analysis. Your love of literature is evident. I look forward to your future TH-cam pieces.
Everyone is afraid of this book but it is surprisingly readable and thoroughly enjoyable.
I've started reading War & Peace along with Crime & Punishment
I am finishing it up now! My research says the Anthony Briggs translation is the best - that is the one I think you have. The Penguin editions seem to be all Anthony Briggs ones.
Thankyou for this video ♥️
The classic surely does look intimidating and i was hesitant to pick it up..
Thankyou for encouraging me to pick it up ☺️
Thank you. I really enjoyed this video, your "tongue being twisted and not knowing how to explain how brilliant the book is" definitely is the best way to describe something great haha. Those "ineffable" things in life. Thank you for an informative video, I'm currently at page 100 something and I'm mesmerized by his art.
How large is the print in this particular version that you read? I'm looking for a version that has a large enough print. I totally agree with you about the book otherwise. I don't like Russia due to the recent events in Ukraine, but I have to say that in my opinion, this is the best book I've ever read.
This is really helpful!! I’m going to try to read it at the end of the month!
this was actually really helpful! i've been wanting to read war and peace but i'm honestly really intimidated by it. these tips will surely help me, thank you!
🇬🇧 Hello 👋, I’ve got this on my Birthday wish list, which I know I’ve got so looking forward to receiving this on Sunday 📖. I will try and read slowly so I take it all in and will annotate it, I find if I do this I take it in more.
im in love with this man
Thanks so much for this video! I've been wanting to read this book for a while now, because my favorite musical is based off war and peace and I've got to know how the story ends 😅
I love Leo Tolstoy ever since I picked up his 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' in my uni days.
I've been thinking about reading this for the longest time, but it's too thick for my liking. I'm a 300pp or less reader. So, anything that exceeds that is a no-go for me. But, perhaps, I'm going to change my mind and slowly work on this soon.
The biggest piece of advice is just make yourself get through that damned party, it gets so much better after that lol
Leo Tolstoy is my favourite writer next to Jane Austen, so anyone giving him love I will subscribe to :D great review!
I stopped reading War and Peace because there were too many characters. I will try to reading it again.
Hello! I just finished reading it last night and I agree with your comments. Great video. New subscriber. :-)
Gandhi, Einstein, Martin Luther King all agreed with Tolstoy and his "Take Jesus at his word". Philosophy. (Return good for evil done).
you said it has 1469 pages why does amazon say its 1440 pages?, is your diffrent?, just wondering how many books is that verstion of war and peace equiverent to?, like how many books with 500 pages could you stand beside it?
HI Drunzo. Thank you for the video. It has convinced me to start the journey. What translation have your read? Do you have a recommendation on translations?
I believe he has the Briggs translation!
Everyone can read this book and everybody should read this book if they can…
Pretty sure most people here actually want to read the book but this book is in the russian highschool curiculum and you need to read this 1,2k pages book to not fail highschool send help pls
Readable classics?? Not so sure about that dude. It is tiring and a slog sometimes, though ultimately rewarding. A lot (most) of my friends have given up on it after a few pages.
Well, he condemns Napoleon allright.
This was such a great video! I’m a co-host of the Dickens versus Tolstoy debate/book club, and we’re reading War and Peace in April and May! I’m incredibly excited, especially since Anna Karenina is my favorite book I’ve ever read! Hearing your praises for War and Peace makes me even more excited to read it! I hope you enjoy Anna Karenina whenever you pick it up! :)
Thank you! I'm actually a big fan of your Dickens vs. Tolstoy debate club as I think it is such a cool concept (though I am ashamed to say that I have somehow not yet read any Dickens) and I am eagerly awaiting the War & Peace debate! I cannot give enough praise towards the book. Despite its incredible length, there is hardly a dull moment. I can't wait to read Anna Karenina next and the praise you have given it has only made me more excited!
@@drunzo363 Oh I'm so glad!! Don't be ashamed! You have some wonderful Dickensian charm ahead of you! I'm also eagerly awaiting the War & Peace debate! That's exactly how I feel about Anna Karenina and it's length. I wouldn't remove a single punctuation mark! Every word has a purpose! I can't wait to hear what you think of it!
Funny enough, your Dickens v Tolstoy book club with Emmie is why
I'm picking up War and Peace!
@@CarolynMarieReads Usually long Classics have boring Parts.
I’m wondering what translation you read. I have the Everyman’s Library edition with the original Maude translation (as opposed to the ‘revised’ Maude translation) on the way. I have already realized I want to learn more about the era in history. Thanks for the tips!
One wonders if “War and Peace” would have been as highly acclaimed as it was if it was published under its original name “War, what is is good for”
I think that both titles sound great TBH.
How many people do you think got the reference? 🥲
@@Lerma_Steph hopefully all 32!
😂😂😂 gotta love Elaine
GOOD GOD
Beyond the Napoleonic wars, I would say it is far more important to have a basic understanding of Russian history, especially in the 19th century. Throughout the book, Tolstoy was taking sides on major political events in Russia that were still extremely relevant when the book was written 50+ years after the war. A lot of the political figures in the book are real people. Spiransky, for example, was the father of Russian Liberalism and issues like serfdom were still relevant in Russia in the 1860s when the book was written (serfdom ending in 1862 in a very controversial way).
I took a lot of Russian history classes in college and it is insane how much I got from those in this book. Tolstoy never shied away from controversial topics in this book. This book can be viewed as both a massive criticism of Russian society and at the same time a love letter to it. I'd very much suggest reading a timeline of 19th century Russia before reading this book, as well as having Google ready for names that sound real.
Thanks for this. I have a GED and no formal education, but I very much enjoy literature. As a FedEx driver in a very remote area I have lots of audiobook time. I listened to Crime And Punishment last year and have been actually reading War And Peace year as time permits. While Dostoyevsky is very readable, and Tolstoy even more so, I have had serious difficulty in keeping track of characters mostly due to the fact that Slavic names all sound the same to me. I've not had this problem with English authors.
Zane, I really respect you because you don't mind saying that you didn't get a higher education. You're clearly an intelligent person. I didn't get through the 10th grade because I got pregnant by an older guy,. That's not exactly the point. I just hate that people who think we're not as intelligent as they are. Blah blah blah! Today's college degree is worthless unless you have a medical or law degree. Sorry for writing, you just touched me with your comment. Have a blessed day and stay safe and was it my imagination, or didn't he say in his first opening sentences, he said " EPITOME" like that interview with Shia LeBeouf, when asked about working with Michael Douglas ( not sure about that) , he pronounced it Ep_uhh, TOME! I guess it's a little pet peeve I've got,,, like Weird AL has too. I hate when someone uses the word " Literally" wrong. Love his video of "Word Crimes", a spoof of " Blurred Lines",, Anyway, felt good to talk because I am always by myself.
You could go to a bookstore or library and take a picture of the couple pages summarizing major characters …they usually also give guidance about the patronymic and diminutive forms of the names…then you can refer to the list when you hit a confusing name…that helps a lot!
im 12 years old, but im very excited to read this one! ive started reading some classics like picture of dorian gray or 1984, so this seems very interesting to continue knowing more literature!
War and Peace is still pending in my TBR, although I love reading Lev Tolstoy. Last year, I read Anna Karenina and at the beginning of this year I read The Death of Ivan Ilyich. Both of them were astounding.
By the way, good video and you have a new subscriber.
Greetings from Mexico. 👋
You’ve made me more excited about having bought a copy of this just this month! I’m excited for it. Thanks for the great review!
Glad you enjoyed, Holly! Thank you for the kind words!
Reading War and Peace has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. However, the tips you give here are definitely warranted - the characters introduced in the first volume are no joke!
Tolstoy also has a lesser known work called "A Calendar of Wisdom"; he apparently believed it was his most important work to humanity. Would recommend checking it out if you haven't :)
I somehow have not heard of that work of his! Thank you for the recommendation!
I really agree with familiarizing yourself with the Napoleonic wars. I first tried reading War and Peace a few years ago and put it down. Since then, I've watched so many documentaries about the Napoleonic wars and I'm currently enjoying War and Peace a lot.
reading the count of monte Cristo right now, my first "classic" book read. I'm loving it, and looking forward to my next. I've definitely found it! thanks so much. They both have to do with the napoleonic era too which I wouldn't have known
I’m 63. I have read many of Tolstoy’s novel and short stories decades ago. Indeed his writing is wonderfully compassionate. I started reading war and peace three years ago, got one hundred and thirty pages into it then got side tracked. I decided this fall to tackle it again but first wanting to check out people on TH-cam reviewing war and peace. I came across your post and the biography of Napoleon you read. I thought that would be a good preview read before war & peace. I just finished it today. What a read!!! What history! What a man!!! I would have liked to have met him. Yeah, he was a fallen human with issues, but what a fascinating person. I’m now ready to embark on war and peace. Thanks for the tip on Napoleons biography. 😎
i read 'crime and punishment' earlier this year and I'm currently reading 'war and peace' and one thing that helps through russian novels is character list! (characters are referred more than one name) I'm making one right now and it's so helpful with later chapters. i have no knowledge historically whatsoever and I'll definitely read some historical context that'll help me through the book. and yes i agree! it's super readable and I'm loving it so far
I read the Maude translation over a period of about 3 months. It was a great read!
John Steinbeck said “people only hate people, because they don’t know them enough” and Tolstoy understood this. You can see it in his writing and his signature clemency he has for human nature. If you want to check out Tolstoy, and get a feel for him, all his short stories are superb and exemplify his philosophy and his prose perfectly.
I've always been so curious if a native Russian language speaker gets an even deeper experience from this book, since we English speakers are reading a translated version. One's native language has so many nuances that are not just understood by the brain, but felt by the heart, if born into that language. I suppose only a person with equal Russian and English understanding, as well as feeling, could tell us.
i’ve read w&p in both russian and english - i do think the impression is different. in russian, it reads as extremely familiar, and there were many times throughout the novel when i’d have to slow down and make sure i didn’t skip the descriptions, because my brain would go “oh yeah, i definitely know what this is, i don’t need to have it explained to me in 4 more paragraphs”. there are many scenes and chapters that capture the “russian spirit” and draw parallels to other works of russian literature (at least they did in my mind), which is what makes them so familiar. things like natasha singing and dancing at her uncle’s are vivid because i know exactly what she’s singing and dancing. another instance of this would be the way moscow and st petersburg are quite directly portrayed with street names and everything - for example, around the middle of the book when pierre is returning from the rostovs and sees a comet, tolstoy names the street he’s on and in which direction the comet flies, so i was picturing the same street i know so well. the best way i’d describe the experience is - your extended family is at the christmas table and your grandpa who’s usually really quiet suddenly remembers a long-forgotten story from his youth, and you listen in awe as something so familiar suddenly becomes fantastical and strange. i re-read W&P in english with my english-speaking friend and found it harder to picture the scenes in my head, for some reason. the book felt less atmospheric. at the same time, i found it easier and lighter to read in english, but then this is a feature of reading in english in general, in my experience. apologies for the wall of text, but i figured if it’s been 2 months and no one’s answered, i might as well go more in-depth 🤓
@licoricegirl great reply. Thanks!😊
I'm currently reading Tolstoy's War and Peace 162 pages and it's the Maude Translation
Tolstoy has to be one of the greatest writers ever. Anna Karenina was one of the most beautiful books I’ve read. Excited to read War & Peace.
Try reading the unabridged version of the novel Les Miserables- it’s a huge epic novel
I had a couple of dry runs with War and Peace when I was younger. Now I'm 71 and just got my copy in the mail today. After listening to you and to Dickens versus Tolstoy I'm ready to read it again from the beginning. I've already read up about the War of 1812.
Inspiring....!
I was going through the most difficult time in my life and reading is my favourite passion. So I decided to read such a challenging classic. I didn't know then the effect that the book would cause in my heart. I don't want to give anything away but the story of Prince Andrei and Natasha was the most beautiful piece of literature that I've read in my entire life. I felt like Tolstoy was talking about me and what I went through. Of all my friends and family who tried to help me no one understood how I was feeling like this man who wrote this book one hundred and fifty years ago. It made me feel alive to know how wonderful literature can be and how this man not only knew how I felt but also could describe my feelings in a way that I never could. I think of this man as if he were a father to me who rescued me from despair. Good literature is magic and allows the most creative people to share their stories with us. Art is inspired by life and this kind of art saved mine.
I just finished reading Anna Karenina, my first Tolstoy novel. I think many of the points you made about what makes Tolstoy a great writer and worth reading translate between these two stories.
I was interested in War and Peace before, but this has secured its spot on the 2023 TBR. Thanks!
Tolstoy's short stories are some of my personal favourites. About two years ago, I read Anna Karenina and definitely see myself picking up War and Peace this spring. Thank you for the encouragement! :)
Just finished it a few weeks ago and I totally agree. Way more readable than I thought it would be. Took me around 3 months but it was worth it. Once you start reading you will always want to know what happens next: Did X character die?? Does Natasha love X character? Do these characters marry? These along with really interesting reflections on the course of history, that are mostly not that difficult to understand.
Thank you so much for the tips. I didn't realise that some of the characters had multiple names. I do hope to read War and Peace one day. Oh the tip to get familiar with the Napoleonic Wars is another great tip.
I'm currently halfway through War and Peace (same translation you showed). I love it, too and think it is very readable. A lot of people complain about the battle scenes being too lengthy, but I haven't felt that yet.
Is yours the anthony briggs translation? i've seen the same translation at barnes and noble, but wasn't sure if it was his translation?
The advice about keeping track of the characters seems especially useful. I began it a couple of years ago and set it aside at p. 200 - probably due to life circumstances and not anything concerning the book itself, which I was enjoying. (I shall have to start at the beginning if I take it up again.)
I read _Anna K_ years ago, and just before the failed W&P attempt his _Resurrection_ which is a wonderful novel.
War & Peace is on my April TBR so it's a perfect timing.
Great Content 🔥🔥,
Subscribed Immediately
Same!
what translation was yours?
Thank you so much for uploading this video. It is helping me get through the pandemic!
Do you think the clothbound edition of this book is readable? Thinking of getting this or the oxford classic edition
I read that same clothbound Briggs translation…it’s fine!
Read it about 10 years ago right after I retired. Not sure I could read it again at 74 with my inability to stay focused now. It was well worth the effort then. I agree 100% with everything you say here. My only criticism at the time of reading was too much war and not enough peace. The characters are well worth the effort however. Modern readers probably don't have the patience for this now since our world moves much too fast. There are several good film versions too. One from 1972 and a more recent one from 2016. PBS productions I believe? Don't watch the Hollywood 1956 version. Poor Audrey Hepburn! Thanks for your comments. The 2016 version is being shown on PBS right now. I have been finding it actually very moving. Maybe I was Russian in a previous life? Finally, a minor theme I really notice in this 2016 version is forgiveness. Marya and her father, and, Dolakov and Pierre. There will be 2 or 3 more by the end. Oh boy, I think I'm addicted! Bob R., Columbus, OH
I really enjoyed reading this book. Like you said it is very readable. Although, I think one of the main protagonists, Pierre, was a bit annoying. I enjoyed parts of the book that is, I guess, the author's love letter to the Field Marshall Kutuzov. I developed the same affection for the Russian general. From a literary perspective, he was a foil to egomaniacal Napoleon.
Great review of this lovey classic, one of my favourite books. Also if you can find an English translation of the Under the Yoke (Под игото is the original title in Bulgarian) I strongly recommend it, a masterpiece of the Bulgarian literature.
Thank you, Zhivka! I have not heard of Under the Yoke, I'll keep my eye out for it next time I'm in a bookstore. Thank you for the recommendation!
John Steinbeck said “people only hate people, because they don’t know them enough” and Tolstoy understood this. You can see it in his writing and his signature clemency he has for human nature. If you want to check out Tolstoy, and get a feel for him, all his short stories are superb and exemplify his philosophy and his prose perfectly.
I love War and Peace, have personally read this book ten times! I could be perfectly content in a solitary confinement cell with War and Peace on my bookshelf. The best way to read this book is imagine famous Hollywood actors as characters in the book. For me this happened after a couple rereads, but it became so much more enjoyable to see famous actors as characters in Tolstoy's masterpiece. Next time you read this book try visualizing Cary Elwes as Prince Andrei, young Keanu Reeves as Nikolai Rostov, young Mel Gibson as Pierre(this actor being such a religious stoic, makes the character just lift off the pages especially during the free mason chapters and his spiritual awakenings during the Moscow occupation 1812), Patrick Stewart as Prince Vasili Kuragin(OMG this was like perfect actor for this character), and so many more. I may just have to read this book again for an 11th time to enjoy the grand movie experience of pages allover again.
Bro...I bought this book back in 2016-Constance Garnett Translation- and never got to read it, now I am a bookworm that’s read tomes like The Decline And Fall Of The Roman Empire,The Wealth Of Nations and a plethora of other huge volume books but this WAR & PEACE book really intimidates me and I really don’t know why heyy.
I started the book in August 2020 but only read 12 pages and thought I would come back coz then I was reading Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment along with The Wealth Of Nations...my biggest mistake🙈 and never went back to reading it...I’m currently reading Katherine Graham’s Autobiography and upon finishing it jumping straight to WAR & PEACE...I wanna close 2021 with it being my biggest reading project.
I will revert to your channel when I’m about to start on it...I haven’t read anything on Napoleon yet and would like to delve into one someday,thanks for the great tips brother.
Much respect ✌🏿 from Soweto,South Africa 🇿🇦
Dude, am I the only person out here who found War and Peace boring? It never seems to get to any people below the status of prince. It’s all gentility. Granted, I only read like 600 pages, so….
Can you please tell me which translated version of War and Peace you read. That would be helpful and greatly appreciated. 🙏
I was searching for the answer to this same question and found out from a reply to a commenter that he read the Anthony Briggs translation. I recently bought this translation but have not read it yet. When I read it years ago, it was in the Maude translation. Maude knew Tolstoy personally and was steeped in Tolstoy's world view. But later, when I compared this translation with the original Russian, I was shocked to find an elementary error! Tolstoy's language is rich and educated, but it is also lucid and plain. He states his meaning with directness, without ambiguity, without concealing his thoughts or playing any games with the reader. It seems to me that Tolstoy's Russian translates very readily into English, or probably most languages. But of course, taste in translations will differ from person to person. To my ear now, the Maude translation sounds a bit more flowery and formal than Tolstoy's plain, sober, sane directness.
@@blakeray9856 Thank you so very much for your reply. I will heed your advice, and look for that edition. Kind regards 🍻
Reading in2024
Would you recommend doing the same for Les Misérables, but instead of reading about the Napoleonic Wars I should read about the French Revolution, right?
The main question is how can individuals decide the fate of nations. Prince Andrey sees a minister of war and says this man decides the fate of nations. One man? -this is what it looks like to have actually read the text. Familiarity with it. Being able to quote it reflects ive read it..
I like this, just starting W&P, thanks! I might also add, in addition to having a character list that you note the page number where each first appeared with a description. When Tolstoy introduces a character, he definitely introduces them but sometimes I forget.
this is such a motivating video, now i totally want to pick it up in the near future. thank you!
Read "Anna Karenina"! You won't regret it. It's AMAZING!! 🙆♀️
Anyone here thanks to Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812?
MAYBE...
Look, I'm seriously debating reading this just so I know how the story begun in the musical ends 😅
@@themandarin9493 I read one part of it and I found it to be very good ,considering that I do often find reading books a bit of a chore,I thought so far this was a solid and surprisingly easy read,I want to read the rest of it as well but I rarely feel like reading stuff.I think it is worth getting into. Keep in mind I have only read Book 1 Part 1 and I’ve been told it only gets better from there.
War and Peace stands on its own,of course there are many other remarkable books. A good story,is a good story.
You're the first person i came across who recommended getting some idea about the Napoleanic Wars before reading War and Peace and I'm really grateful for that. I'll probably get the same book you mentioned, sounds interesting.
the whistle you make when saying a word with an "s" reminds me of matthew mcconaughey
It’s such an incredible book , the people are alive , you’re with them on the battle field , in their drawing rooms. Wonderful
It’s engrossing and full of life and death , atmosphere , philosophy, …
I found War and Peace surprisingly easy to read.
Your video inspired me to pick it up. Thanks!
“Reading as an activity” is a good way to look at it.
Thank you. I have been struggling to read and want to read War and Peace. It has been a 4 years struggle. I only have 25% down now. However, I am now at a part that is soo interesting to me that I may now speed through. I love the society parts a lot but the war parts I do not like as much but it is great of course. The last big book I read was 10-15 years ago. Before the iphone age. I dont have many classics under my belt.
I read Anna Karenina last year during lockdown and it was incredible, and taught me so much (and I completely agree about his magic for characterisation). Tolstoy really is a master storyteller who has helped me get over the fear of big books, which I'm sure we've all have at some stage. I have since bought some chunkier books.
Regards Don Quioxte and War and Peace, do you recommend any specific translations?
I'm sure you've got a lot lined up, but you should do something on your love of film. I, too, am obsessed with cinemas and you should definitely do like a “favourite films tag” or “film recs” or “films I watched this month” etc.
I have only read Don Quixote and War & Peace once so I can only offer my perspective on those translations. I have not personally done much research on translations for War & Peace so I can't say for sure what the authoritative translation is, however, the translation by Anthony Briggs was immaculate. I enjoyed the book through and through and would personally recommend the translation.
In regards to Don Quixote, I read the translation by John Rutherford (the Penguin Classics paperback edition). There were moments in the book that were dull and I do not know whether to attribute that fact to the writing itself or the translation. Though I will say that overall, Don Quixote is one of the best books I have ever read and I hold it in even higher reverence for the impact its had on world literature. In regards to other translations, I hear wonderful things about the translation by Edith Grossman. Her translation is under the ASIN of 0060934344 (the cover is of a knight's helmet on a red background). I plan on reading that translation when I re-read Don Quixote.
I'm glad you brought up film because I do plan on making videos about my love of film in the future. I also I am trying to look for ways of blending my love for books and film as well. I'm currently reading a book that is cherished by one of my favorite directors and I plan on making a video in regards to that soon. Thank you for the comment!
Great video! How was your experience with the clothbound edition? I have a clothbound and an Oxford edition so I’m debating which one I’d use to read it.
Thanks, Christelle! No complaints regarding the clothbound edition, though I did notice that some of the cover began to fade from my hands holding it for so long.
@@drunzo363 that’s good to know! Might try to read it soon! 😊
Yes...but what about those cat videos!
Your passion for Tolstoy's writing is contagious. I'm planning to read War and Peace or Anna Karenina this year, can't wait.
I’m also reading War and Peace and Anna Karenia. I’m really excited to start these two.
is the book nepolean life got pictures in it?
This is so helpful, thank you
I'm on book two and I'm worried I won't make it. I don't mind the length and the writing isn't difficult. It's the characters I can't follow. I'm listening by audio, and I don't know how to engage with this book effectively in way that isn't like a homework assignment.
It is the best book ever written. Read it already if you haven't
great video, bookshelf tour or more recommendations soon?
Thank you! You can definitely expect a bookshelf tour and recommendations to come soon.
5:35 that's normal for russian language.
What translation did you use?
What translation do you have?
Somehow your video, as yourself, is very charming. It looks very natural and simple, and yet elegant, cosy and well made.
Thanks for this content! I'm currently reading Anna Karenina, my very first Tolstoy. I do agree with how he writes like he brings the characters to life. I do hope I could get to read War and Peace in the future!
I am assuming that you must have completed reading Anna Karenina so I just wanted to ask a small question.
Without judging anyone, I am just a sort of person who finds it hard to look past infidelity, betrayal. So do you think it's worth reading for a person like me as well?
This year I read it for the first time. I read the same clothbound edition of the Briggs translation that you are holding up. Like you I loved it. However, every once in a while Briggs throws in a British expression that could be confusing and distracting, like saying an army unit is “at sixes and sevens.” I got a copy of the Maude translation and the newer one by Pevear and Volokonsky. The old Maude I found (from 1942!) has very helpful maps, but like Briggs it has occasional weird expressions like a kid who is a “sharp little thing” being referred to as a “slyboots.”
I’m about 300 pages into the Pevear and Volokonsky now. It seems to be more faithful to the original, more literal, with more details that are slurred over in the other translations. Some people say that makes it more awkward to read but I’m finding it quite enjoyable even though this is my second time reading W&P this year!
frengeles
Read Dominic Lieven book, Russia against Napoleon.
Dominic Lieven great uncle was a Russian naval commander
Thanks! I'm half way through, I'm really liking it, and I have another tip. The thing that's helped me the most is having a basic understanding of Russian history from this period like: What is a serf? If you don't know then a lot of the serf liberation stuff is going to drag you down. What are icons? Pilgrims? What are the different parts of the Empire?
If you're from the USA like me you probably didn't get a lot of that in middle school geography, you know?
About tolstoy not condemning people for the bad things they do.
i've only read 2 great russian classics. I've finished Crime and Punishment and i've read about 50 pages of War & Peace. And one sentiment i get from both these books is about what you said, 'To love man is to love man FOR thier faults, not in spite of them or beside them.'