The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories

What happens when the initial spark of romantic devotion curdles into a suffocating trap of resentment? This collection, anchored by Tolstoy’s provocative late novella, explores the fragile boundaries of human intimacy and the destructive power of jealousy. Set against the backdrop of a train journey, the title story unfolds as a raw confession of a marriage undone by obsession. Accompanied by three other shorter works, including “Master and Man,” this volume charts the moral landscapes of individuals pushed to their absolute limits.

These stories represent the peak of Tolstoy’s late-career mastery, where his epic scope is distilled into sharp, uncompromising psychological portraits. The narrative voice is remarkably direct, stripping away politeness to expose the uncomfortable truths of domestic life. Alma Classics presents these works in a fresh translation that preserves the urgent rhythm of the original text, proving why these once-censored tales still retain their shocking modern relevance.

This edition is perfect for readers who appreciate deep psychological dramas and wish to venture beyond the author’s major novels. It serves as an excellent entry point into nineteenth-century literature, offering a concise look at the moral philosophy of a literary giant.