A Study of the Relationship Between Death and the Meaning of Life in “The Death of Ivan Ilyich”

Subject Areas : Christianity

زهره nemati ¹ , Arastoo Mirani ² , mostafa khosravi ³

1 -
2 - Assistant professor of psychology of religion, Islamic Azad University, Gorgan, Iran
3 - Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Kurdkovi Branch, Payam Noor University, Iran.

Received: 2025-01-27 Accepted : 2025-02-12 Published : 2025-09-27

Keywords: Leo Tolstoy, meaning of life, death, salvation, The Death of Ivan Ilyich.,

Abstract :

Love is often considered a key pathway to discovering the meaning of life. In “The Death of Ivan Ilyich,” Tolstoy explores the depths of human experience, examining both life and death. Through a narrative of suffering and awakening, the story profoundly reflects on mortality and how one confronts it. Ivan Ilyich builds his life around social norms and material success, only to discover the emptiness of these pursuits when faced with illness and the approach of death. This confrontation leads him to reevaluate his values, symbolizing Tolstoy’s own spiritual and moral quest for meaning. The purpose of this research is to explore the relationship between death and the meaning of life as depicted in the narrative. The themes of death and meaning provide both Ivan and the reader with an opportunity for reflection on life’s true values. This study employs a descriptive-analytical approach, drawing on library resources for support. Initially, Tolstoy portrays Ivan’s life as a socially-oriented, materialistic existence defined by appearances. However, illness and the inevitability of death prompt Ivan to seek a more authentic meaning. Ultimately, he learns that life goes beyond superficial achievements and that accepting mortality can lead to peace and liberation from fear.

References:

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