Discuss the factors responsible for the death of Anna Karenina.

Answer

Discuss the factors responsible for the death of Anna Karenina.

Or, is it possible to see Anna Karenina as a tragic figure trapped by fate and unable to undo the effects of society and nature?

In Leo Tolstoy’s (1828-1910) realist novel “Anna Karenina,” Anna can be seen as a tragic figure trapped by both fate and the constraints of society and nature. Tolstoy portrays her as a deeply complex character whose downfall is the result of internal struggles, societal pressures, and the natural consequences of her choices. Despite her flaws, Anna’s tragedy evokes sympathy, as she is caught in circumstances beyond her control and unable to break free.

Trapped by Society: Anna’s tragedy begins with her passionate love for Vronsky, which leads her to leave her husband, Karenin, and her son, Seryozha. However, her pursuit of love puts her in direct conflict with the rigid societal norms of 19th-century Russia. Adultery is treated as a grave offense for women, while men like Oblonsky face minimal consequences for similar actions. Anna’s fall from grace illustrates the double standards of her society.

She is humiliated publicly at the opera. Once the center of attention and admiration, Anna becomes a social outcast. Her realization of this isolation deepens her despair. The societal rejection not only punishes her but also isolates her emotionally, leaving her with no support system outside of Vronsky.

Trapped by Nature: Anna is also a victim of natural forces, such as her emotional intensity and human instincts. Her passionate nature leads her to seek love at all costs. She becomes desperate for Vronsky.

“I love him, I am his mistress, I cannot stand you … I hate you.”

Anna says this to Karenin when he insists that she leave the arena after Vronsky falls off his horse at the steeplechase. Anna’s blunt confession marks the complete breakdown of their marriage.

However, passion becomes destructive for Anna when her relationship with Vronsky begins to deteriorate. She becomes consumed by jealousy and