Hadji Murat Novella Published
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
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"Hadji Murat", a posthumously published novella by Leo Tolstoy, was written between 1896 and 1904 but only saw publication in 1912, two years after his death. Considered one of Tolstoy's most powerful later works, the novella is set during the Caucasian War and is based on the real-life story of Hadji Murat, an Avar rebel commander who struggles between two empires — the Russian imperial forces and the Islamic resistance led by Imam Shamil. The narrative centers on Murat's desperate attempt to switch allegiances and negotiate safety for his family, all while navigating treacherous political and military landscapes.
Tolstoy presents Hadji Murat not just as a warrior but as a complex, honorable, and deeply human character trapped by forces beyond his control. The novella vividly captures the cruelty of war, the duplicity of power, and the tragic fate of individuals caught between conflicting loyalties. In contrast to romanticized depictions of heroism, Tolstoy emphasizes the brutality and senselessness of imperial conquest. With its lean, precise prose and philosophical depth, Hadji Murat stands as a grim but poignant commentary on resistance, loyalty, and the human cost of empire.
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Primary Reference: Leo Tolstoy

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