Russian literature goes beyond entertainment, reflecting the country’s history, culture, and national identity. Novels like War and Peace and The Brothers Karamazov delve into human psychology and social issues, offering timeless wisdom. Russian school children begin studying their literary canon early, connecting with their national identity through these works.
The impact of Russian literature extends beyond the classroom. Even long-deceased authors like Tolstoy continue to shape the lives of citizens and influence Russian leaders. Living in fiction is an integral part of Russian life, providing insight into the nation’s soul.
Cultural Impact and Political Controversy
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed admiration for iconic Russian authors like Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Turgenev, Lermontov, and Yesenin. However, scholars question Putin’s cultural knowledge, citing contradictions between the ideas in these books and his administration’s actions.
The debate gains significance amid Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine. Russian literature’s relationship with politics is complex, encompassing discussions on the country’s identity, its ties with the West, and its place in history.
As the world observes developments in Russia and Ukraine, the enduring relevance of Russian literature’s themes is evident. Despite skepticism surrounding Putin’s literary affinity, the influence of these works on Russian culture and identity remains undeniable.
Advocates of Non-Violent Resistance
Leo Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, Vladimir Putin’s favorite writers, championed non-violent resistance against evil. They restored faith in the goodness of humanity and God during a time of declining religious morality.
Tolstoy’s experience in the Crimean War deeply impacted him, transforming him into a lifelong pacifist. His Sevastopol Sketches, published in 1855, depicted the devastating consequences of war, portraying soldiers reduced to skeletons and doctors using sharp knives to revive the wounded.
Tolstoy’s commitment to non-violence resonates even today, inspiring people amidst ongoing struggles with violence and injustice.
Tolstoy’s Pacifism and the Power of Truth
In his youth, Leo Tolstoy fought in the Crimean War and was deeply impacted by the horrors of combat. These experiences led him to embrace pacifism for the rest of his life. His book, Sevastopol Sketches, stands out as an early portrayal of the grim aftermath of war. Tolstoy argues that the political justifications for war are mere propaganda, manipulating soldiers’ morale. He asserts that the real hero of war is truth, as everyone ultimately loses.
As Tolstoy’s life progressed, his pacifism became inseparable from his religious beliefs. After being excommunicated from the Orthodox Church, he advocated for unconditional love as the sole guiding principle for humanity. His novel, Resurrection, argues against the right to punish others, emphasizing the complexities of the world and the shared accountability of all. It was this belief that led Tolstoy to protest Russia’s deadly invasion of Ukraine and resonated with Lenin’s socialist ideals.
The Quest for Russian Identity: From Literature to Politics
On February 24, 2022, Putin delivered a national address justifying Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While emphasizing the historical struggle against the West and denying Ukraine’s independence, Putin touched upon a theme deeply rooted in Russian literature: the search for a national identity. From the works of Pushkin to Karamazin, Russian literary giants have grappled with defining what it truly means to be Russian within the expansive and diverse civilization. With no unified history to unite its people, the question of whether to Westernize or remain isolated has long been debated. Peter the Great favored Westernization, while Lenin hoped for a workers’ revolution across Europe. This ongoing search for identity also gave rise to Pan-Slavism, advocating for unity with other Slavic nations as a counter to Western influence.
Although Pan-Slavism was suppressed during the Bolshevik era, it resurfaced in Putin’s speeches and writings. Putin claims Russia’s right to Ukraine based on shared cultural heritage rather than its former Soviet ties. The ideology of Pan-Slavism, despite its origins in chauvinism, strikes a chord with the Russian people’s desire to assert their national pride. The quest for Russian identity, explored in both literature and politics, continues to shape the country’s history and its relationship with the world.
Dostoevsky’s Influence on Putin’s Nationalist Policies
Dostoevsky’s profound understanding of Russian national pride has made him influential to Putin, who adopts Pan-Slavism and emphasizes Russia’s cultural heritage. Despite advocating humility, Dostoevsky supported the expansion of the Russian Empire and believed war rejuvenated nations. Putin’s alignment with Dostoevsky’s ideas has contributed to tensions with neighboring countries like Ukraine.
