How to Read War and Peace

"War and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy is one of the most famous pieces of literature in world history. Published in the late nineteenth century, the novel focuses on the lives of five Russian families during the time of the Napoleonic Wars. The language is rich with description, and details the challenges of family and social life during the time in Russia. Reading the book may seem like quite an undertaking, but don't let its size intimidate you.

Things You'll Need

• A copy of War and Peace

Instructions

1. Set up a comfortable space for reading. This can be a favorite chair, a bed or even a coffee shop.

2. Start reading at a manageable pace. Don't try to zip through the story. There are so many plot threads flying through the book. Confusion and frustration can result. Try starting with one to three chapters per sitting, and see how that feels.

3. Take notes. This may be reminiscent of school, but it may also be what keeps everything in order. There will be no test--assuming this isn't for a class--so just jot down the important people, places and things. When you see references to them later, there will be no confusion.

4. Enjoy the language. Be sure to take the time to let the language of the novel flow. Books just aren't written this way anymore and because of that, the novel may seem too dense. Soak up the words, and let those words paint a picture of the times.

5. Celebrate the fact that you've completed War and Peace. Do something special to celebrate the achievement. While it's enjoyable, it's not always an easy task, but the sense of satisfaction is well worth the time spent reading.

6. Rent the movie version. There are two solid movie versions of War and Peace--the 1956 American film and a 1968 Russian adaptation.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out other books while reading War and Peace. Reading this particular book can sometimes seem exhausting, so make sure that lighter fare is available if you need to take a break.

• If you are frustrated, stop reading for the day and focus your attention on something else or go over any notes you wrote down. Don't just give up. It's worth the time and energy.