In the book, The Death of Ivan Ilyich: An Introduction
The character of the author, Leo Tolstoy, and that of the main personality, Ivan Ilyich shares some similarities and differences. One of the most evident similarities between the two men is that they both came from very influential and wealthy families, although their lives seem to have had somewhat different outcomes. The two men experienced a moment of deep thought, pain, and disillusionment in their lives whereby they started questioning the prevailing societal teachings. Additionally, both characters were very dedicated, hardworking and focused towards achieving greatness (Tolstoy and L. S.-N. H. Museum, p 7). The outstanding commitment of the two characters enabled them to become successful in life. Ivan rose very quickly through the ranks from being an examining magistrate, to a prosecutor, and finally he became a member of the court of justice. On the other hand, Leo Tolstoy was a very talented and creative writer who developed various renowned works. The author's works were mostly fictional, and he was renowned for taking great pride in what he did with a feeling of accomplishment (11).
Moving forward, the character of the two men seem different
Especially in regards to their awakening moments, and what made them have different views on the society and the people around them. For Ivan, his awakening moment was when he started contemplating about death due to his chronic illness, and his fear of death awoke his consciousness (14). Ivan started condemning the hypocrisy in the religion and politics, and this led to his discontinuation from the church. On the other hand, Tolstoy became disillusioned and dissatisfied with his life at the epitome of his success. As a result, Tolstoy started thinking about his life in relation to the injustices, hypocrisy and the inequalities that were present in the society. Additionally, Tolstoy's life was a bit harsh at the beginning as he lost both his parents while still a child. On the other hand, Ivan never lost his parents at an early stage, but his last days were lived in extreme pain and sadness due to his chronic illness (17).
Chronic illnesses are known to be extremely frustrating and draining, and in extreme cases lead to mental health challenges. The endurance of the chronic diseases affects the victim's attitude, happiness, and reduces them to mere survivors. The attitude that is triggered by chronic illnesses is evident from Ivan who at one point regarded the death announcements trivial and idiotic. Death to Ivan appeared insignificant and stupid. At the time, he had gone through so much pain from his illness which had changed his attitude.
Ivan's case portrays how chronic illnesses can be extremely frustrating. Ironically, Ivan was not concerned about his illness, and he believed it was a trivial thing that almost amounted to nothing. Another reason that could have triggered him to consider death announcement trivial is the fact that he was dying without a loving and caring support system. He had persuaded himself that he was dying, yet he was terrified of the imminent death (25). He felt hopeless and helpless and did not trust even those in his close circle. Also, he did not believe that he had much to live for and saw death as the only option.
Work Cited
Tolstoy, Leo, and L. S.-N. H. Museum. The Death of Ivan Ilyich: An Introduction. Washington D.C: National Endowment for the Arts, 2007. Print.
