The Tolstoy Library

In which the uneasy anticipation of war settles upon the Russian ranks as the Emperor, troubled by the stark realities of battle, faces envoys and sends forth negotiators while the army stirs to actio...

5 Jul 10min

In which a young Guards officer, eager to carve out a career and ascend the ranks, navigates the noble and military circles surrounding the imperial headquarters, seeking patronage and opportunity ami...

5 Jul 15min

In which the allied Russian and Austrian armies, freshly assembled and arrayed in immaculate splendour, present themselves before their emperors in a grand review that stirs the hearts of every soldie...

4 Jul 11min

In which the lively camaraderie and youthful bravado of young officers gathering before a grand review reveal the differing temperaments and ambitions shaped by aristocratic service and the harsh real...

4 Jul 20min

In which the Rostóv family anxiously receives news of young Nicholas from the warfront, their hearts torn between pride and concern as they read his letter recounting bravery and suffering. Tender fam...

4 Jul 14min

In which the ageing and exacting Prince Nicholas Bolkónski prepares uneasily for the arrival of Prince Vasíli and his son, whose visit stirs a mixture of resentment and apprehension among the househol...

3 Jul 20min

In which the venerable Prince Bolkónski receives the hopeful Prince Vasíli and his son Anatole, whose arrival stirs a flurry of varied emotions and reflections among the ladies of the household, espec...

3 Jul 19min

In which a young princess is faced with a momentous proposition that stirs within her a storm of tender fears and heartfelt resolve, while her father wrestles with protective indignation and worldly c...

3 Jul 14min