Erinnerungen an Leo N. Tolstoi

A courtier who lived at the heart of the Russian imperial world offers a rare, personal glimpse of the writer’s early years. From their first encounter in Moscow to the lively gatherings in Petersburg, she recalls Leo’s modesty, sharp wit and an uncanny ability to read people, traits that made his presence both entertaining and thought‑provoking. Her memories capture the contrast between the charismatic, “thin‑skinned” young officer and the humble family member whose charm delighted everyone around him.

Written with a discerning, devoutly Christian eye, the memoir does not shy away from criticism, probing his religious and philosophical ideas from a firmly orthodox standpoint. Yet the tone remains affectionate, revealing a lifelong bond that endured despite geographic distance and later disagreements. For listeners, these recollections enrich the portrait of a literary giant by showing how his character was perceived by a close, educated relative who witnessed his rise from a promising newcomer to a celebrated author.