The Prisoner of the Caucasus

Historical Context and Significance

«The Prisoner of the Caucasus» is a novella by Leo Tolstoy, written in 1872. The work describes moral dilemmas, cultural clashes, and the tragedy of human fate against the backdrop of the Caucasian War. This piece reflects Tolstoy's personal experiences during his military service in the Caucasus. Themes of honor, duty, and internal conflict in «The Prisoner of the Caucasus» have influenced Russian literature and culture, enriching it with images of strong yet suffering heroes undergoing profound moral exploration.