"How Much Land Does a Man Need?" is a short story by Leo Tolstoy that explores the destructive consequences of human greed and the pursuit of material possessions. The story follows a peasant named Pahom who becomes obsessed with acquiring more land and wealth, leading him to make a deadly bargain with the devil. Through Pahom's tragic fate, Tolstoy highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of living a simple and contented life. The story is a powerful critique of the capitalist system and the social structures that prioritize wealth and power over human well-being. Overall, "How Much Land Does a Man Need?" is a thought-provoking and morally challenging work that raises important questions about the nature of happiness, morality, and human desire.
Translated by Louise Maude & Aylmer Maude