What Is Art?

What Is Art? by Leo Tolstoy is a philosophical treatise where he explores the nature and purpose of art, arguing that its true function is to transmit genuine feelings and unite people through shared emotional experiences. Tolstoy defines art as the capacity to transmit feelings from one person to another. He emphasizes the importance of sincerity and clarity in artistic expression, arguing that art should be accessible to all, not just the elite. Tolstoy believes that art should play a vital role in improving society. He argues that art should promote empathy, understanding, and a sense of unity among people. Tolstoy connects art to religious values, suggesting that true art is aligned with universal truths and promotes love, compassion, and brotherhood. What is Art? remains an influential work, prompting ongoing discussions about the nature and function of art, its relationship to society, and its potential to inspire positive change.