Anna Karenina (Annotated‪)‬

Leo Tolstoy’s classic story of doomed love is one of the most admired novels in world literature with many acclaimed authors considering Anna Karenina the greatest work of literature ever. Although first published in book form in 1878, it was initially released in serial installments from 1873 to 1877 in the periodical The Russian Messenger.


Generations of readers have been enthralled by his magnificent heroine, the unhappily married Anna Karenina, and her tragic affair with dashing Count Vronsky. In their world frivolous liaisons are commonplace, but Anna and Vronsky’s consuming passion makes them a target for scorn and leads to Anna’s increasing isolation. The heartbreaking trajectory of their relationship contrasts sharply with the colorful swirl of friends and family members who surround them, especially the newlyweds Kitty and Levin, who forge a touching bond as they struggle to make a life together.


Anna Karenina is a masterpiece not only because of the unforgettable woman at its core and the stark drama of her fate, but also because it explores and illuminates the deepest questions about how to live a fulfilled life. The novel explores a diverse range of topics. Some of them include an evaluation of the feudal system that existed in Russia at the time—politics, not only in the Russian government but also at the level of the individual characters and families, religion, morality, gender and social class.


Garnett’s translation is often considered the most beautiful and expressive of all translations. Some scholars consider her language to be closer than other translations to the 19th-century prose of the original. The uninterrupted flow of her prose closely resembles Tolstoy’s, who is known for his long, winding sentences.


In this version you will find:

- a detailed table of contents for easy navigation

- a short biography of the author, Leo Tolstoy

- a short biography of the translator, Constance Garnett