Leo Tolstoy's "The Awakening" or "The Resurrection" is a novel published in 1899. It is one of Tolstoy's later works and reflects his mature philosophical and moral outlook. The novel is a critique of the Russian justice system, the social hierarchy, and the institution of marriage.

The story follows the life of Prince Dmitri Nekhlyudov, a wealthy nobleman who serves on the jury during a trial. To his shock, he recognizes one of the defendants, a young maid named Maslova, as a woman he seduced and abandoned years earlier. Consumed by guilt and remorse, Nekhlyudov becomes determined to right his wrongs and help Maslova.

As the narrative unfolds, Nekhlyudov's journey takes him deep into the heart of Russia's social injustices. He witnesses firsthand the suffering of the lower classes, the corruption of the legal system, and the hypocrisy of the aristocracy. Along the way, he grapples with questions of morality, redemption, and the true meaning of justice.

Driven by his newfound sense of duty, Nekhlyudov embarks on a quest to rescue Maslova from her unjust fate. His efforts lead him to confront his own privilege and complicity in the oppression of the lower classes. Through Nekhlyudov's character development, Tolstoy explores themes of social conscience, personal responsibility, and the power of individual action to effect change.

"Resurrection" is renowned for its powerful portrayal of the human condition and its unflinching critique of Russian society. Tolstoy's prose is masterful, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by his characters. The novel is considered one of Tolstoy's greatest achievements and remains a timeless classic of Russian literature.

The Awakening - pocket, Engelsk, 2024