Leo Tolstoy’s classic story of doomed love is one of the most admired novels in world literature. Generations of readers have been enthralled by his magnificent heroine, the unhappily married Anna Karenina, and her tragic affair with dashing Count Vronsky.
In their world frivolous liaisons are commonplace, but Anna and Vronsky’s consuming passion makes them a target for scorn and leads to Anna’s increasing isolation. The heartbreaking trajectory of their relationship contrasts sharply with the colorful swirl of friends and family members who surround them, especially the newlyweds Kitty and Levin, who forge a touching bond as they struggle to make a life together. Anna Karenina is a masterpiece not only because of the unforgettable woman at its core and the stark drama of her fate, but also because it explores and illuminates the deepest questions about how to live a fulfilled life.
In their world frivolous liaisons are commonplace, but Anna and Vronsky’s consuming passion makes them a target for scorn and leads to Anna’s increasing isolation. The heartbreaking trajectory of their relationship contrasts sharply with the colorful swirl of friends and family members who surround them, especially the newlyweds Kitty and Levin, who forge a touching bond as they struggle to make a life together. Anna Karenina is a masterpiece not only because of the unforgettable woman at its core and the stark drama of her fate, but also because it explores and illuminates the deepest questions about how to live a fulfilled life.
I may have mentioned this once of twice before, but I have a serious obsession with Russia and everything Russian. I dream of the day that I can visit St. Petersburg and Moscow. I can't say exactly what it is, but I am fascinated by Russian culture. In saying all that I have never read anything but a Russian author before. This is shameful I know, as there are a number of wonderful Russian classics that I am missing out on. Such as Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy.
My Housemate read this novel a number of years ago and I have wanted to read it since then. I loved hearing about the story, and the characters. It sounded like a wonderfully heartbreaking story.
The movie- I hear it is a very abstract interpretation of the novel, and although I am curious about it, I think I am going to wait till I have read the book to see the movie. I don't want my perception of the novel to be tainted. I will already see Kiera Knightly as Anna, and I am not sure I am ok with this.
I love movies and not seeing this one will be very difficult for me, but I'll survive. Has anyone seen it? Have you read the book? How does it compare? Should I even read the book? I eagerly await your replies.
~Happy Reading Everyone!
I've read the book before, and its intense but super interesting. I have a copy if you'd like to borrow it :)
ReplyDeleteWell, I actually don't wanna see the movie. lol.
ReplyDeleteI watched the Sophie Marceu version a few years back and it was very good, but since I don't like Kiera Knightly that much as an actress, I'm just gonna sit this one out. :P
This movie is on top of my list!!Can't wait till it's released in Germany. Haven't read the book, but I'm a huge fan of Keira Knightley.
ReplyDeleteOh, I love Russian culture, too (well, certain parts of it anyway). I think what I love most is the architecture - it's GORGEOUS. The Russian influence is one of the things that I am most interested in about Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo - a book I haven't read yet. But I'm not sure I have ever read a book written by an actual Russian author either. I would very much like to visit there one day - my dad has been and he says it wasn't the best for tourists, but that was before the Iron Curtain fell, so it should be better now.
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