The Devil

Historical Context and Significance

The novella «The Devil» by Leo Tolstoy, written in 1889 but published posthumously in 1911, is an important work in the context of late 19th-century Russian literature. In it, Tolstoy explores themes of moral choice, temptation, and internal struggle. The main character, Yevgeny Irtenyev, faces strong temptation in the form of the peasant woman Stepanida, leading to tragic consequences. The novella reflects Tolstoy's deep understanding of the human soul and morality, as well as his critical view of the social and moral norms of his time. The influence of «The Devil» on culture lies in its ability to raise eternal questions about good and evil, free will, and responsibility, making it relevant to this day.