War and Peace Books VI X by Leo Tolstoy Hardback Book 9781513134413

War and Peace 1869 is a novel by Russian writer Leo Tolstoy Serialized between 1865 and 1867 it was published in book form in 1869 and has since been recognized as a masterpiece of world literature Notable for its epic scale War and Peace encompasses hundreds of characters diligently following its five central families across fifteen years while featuring detailed imaginings of such historical figures as Napoleon Bonaparte In Books VIX he explores the emotions of his wide cast of characters who during a period of tenuous peace attempt to return to a sense of normalcy Following Napoleons defeat of Russian and Austrian forces at the Battle of Austerlitz the Rostov Bezukhov and Bolkonsky families struggle to adapt to a changing world While Prince Andrei attempts to balance his political obligations with his growing affection for Natasha Rostov his friend Pierre finds himself at a crossroads Disillusioned with Freemasonry obsessed with discovering a way to live ethically he grows increasingly volatile and despondent When Natasha is attacked by the vicious Anatole Kuragin Pierre finds himself in the position of comforting her and they soon form a strong attachment After several years however Napoleons army begins advancing on Russia once more bringing uncertainty and chaos to its traumatized people With its juxtaposition of political peace with the private and public turmoil of his characters Tolstoys story brings history to life while reminding us that the past is always...