Leo Tolstoy and Charlotte Bronte – Essay

Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy and Charlotte Bronte are two of the most iconic and influential writers in the history of literature. Both were born in the early 19th century and achieved widespread fame and success during their lifetimes. While they lived in different parts of the world and experienced different challenges and triumphs, there are several key similarities and differences in their lives and works that are worth exploring.

One major similarity between Tolstoy and Bronte is that both writers were deeply interested in exploring the human experience and the complexities of human relationships. Tolstoy was known for his long and epic novels, which explored themes of love, family, and society. Bronte, on the other hand, was known for her passionate and often tumultuous novels, which explored themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Both writers used their works to delve into the depths of the human experience and to shed light on the inner workings of human relationships.

Charlotte Bronte
Charlotte Bronte

Another similarity between Tolstoy and Bronte is that both writers experienced significant hardships and challenges in their personal lives. Tolstoy struggled with financial difficulties and creative blocks throughout his career, and he experienced a number of personal and professional challenges, including the negative reception of some of his later works. Bronte, meanwhile, struggled with financial difficulties and social constraints as a woman writer in a male-dominated field, and she experienced a number of personal tragedies, including the death of several loved ones. Despite these challenges, both Tolstoy and Bronte remained dedicated to their craft and continued to produce some of their most celebrated works during difficult periods in their lives.

There are also several key differences in the lives of Tolstoy and Bronte. One major difference is that Tolstoy was born and raised in Russia, while Bronte was born and raised in England. This geographic difference had a significant impact on their writing, as they were exposed to different cultural influences and societal norms. Tolstoy was also known for his long and epic novels, while Bronte was primarily known for her novels and poems. Additionally, Tolstoy was known for his realistic and often philosophical style, while Bronte was known for her passionate and emotional approach to writing.