In 1900, two of Russia's most prominent literacy figures, Leo Tolstoy and Maxim Gorky, were photographed together at Tolstoy's estate, yasnaya Polyana.
In 1900, two of Russia's most prominent literacy figures, Leo Tolstoy and Maxim Gorky, at Tolstoy's estate, yasnaya Polyana
In 1900, two of Russia's most prominent literacy figures, Leo Tolstoy and Maxim Gorky, at Tolstoy's estate, yasnaya Polyana
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00:00In 1900, two of Russia's most prominent literary figures, Leo Tolstoy and Maxim Gorky, were
00:11photographed together at Tolstoy's estate, Yasnaya Polyana. The photograph, taken by
00:19Tolstoy's wife, Sofia Andreevna Tolstaya, captures a significant moment in Russian literary
00:28history. Sofia was not only a devoted partner but also a keen photographer, often documenting
00:37her husband's life and interactions with key figures. By 1900, Tolstoy, the celebrated
00:46author of War and Peace and Anna Karenina, was already a towering figure in world literature.
00:55Known for his profound philosophical inquiries and moral writings, Gorky, on the other hand,
01:03was a rising star in Russian literature. Renowned for his works depicting the struggles of the
01:11working class and his involvement in revolutionary movements. At the time of their meeting, Gorky
01:18was deeply influenced by Tolstoy's ideas, particularly his humanistic views, and saw
01:27him as a moral authority. Yasnaya Polyana, located in Tula province, was more than just
01:35Tolstoy's residence. It served as his intellectual haven and a place where many significant conversations
01:44and philosophical debates took place. The meeting between the two writers at this retreat marked an
01:52important moment of literary exchange, symbolizing the passing of the literary torch from the
02:00established Tolstoy to the younger, more revolutionary Gorky. The photo not only documents their personal
02:09connection but also reflects the intellectual and cultural landscape of Russia at the turn
02:16of the 20th century.