# What Men Live By, and Other Tales

**Author:** Leo, Tolstoy
**Tags:** Russia, Peasants
**Price:** Free
**Formats:** DOCX, EPUB, FB2, PDF, TXT
**Downloads:** 31
**Added:** 10.07.2026
**URL:** https://samolit.com/books/96215

## Description

Leo Tolstoy's "What Men Live By, and Other Tales" gathers a profound collection of parables that delve into the enduring questions of human existence and morality. The titular story introduces Simon, a humble shoemaker, and the mysterious stranger he takes in, whose presence unveils timeless truths about compassion, selfless love, and the divine spirit found within everyday human actions. This compilation also features other celebrated narratives, including "The Three Questions," where a king seeks answers to life's most vital inquiries, and "How Much Land Does a Man Need?", a cautionary tale about insatiable greed. Through straightforward yet powerful storytelling, often set against the backdrop of Russian peasant life, Tolstoy explores themes of wisdom, forgiveness, and the true source of human sustenance, inviting readers to reflect on what truly matters. Each tale serves as a gentle yet profound guide, illuminating the simple virtues that govern a meaningful life.