Books Quote by Leo Tolstoy
““Afterward I could not help admiring the discrimination of the host and hostess in the distribution of the children’s presents. The little girl, who had already a portion of three hundred thousand rubles, received the costliest doll. Then followed presents diminishing in value in accordance with the rank of the parents of these happy children; finally, the child of lowest degree, a thin, freckled, red-haired little boy of ten, got nothing but a book of stories about the marvels of nature and tears of devotion, etc., without pictures or even woodcuts. He was the son of a poor widow, the governess of the children of the house, an oppressed and scared little boy. He was dressed in a short jacket of inferior nankeen. After receiving his book he walked around the other toys for a long time; he longed to play with the other children, but did not dare; it was evident that he already felt and understood his position. I””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, 1877
The passage shows how social hierarchy dictates the value of gifts, revealing deep inequality and the child's awareness of his low status.
In simple terms: Children receive gifts based on their parents' rank, exposing class disparity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge unfair social structures.
Themes
class inequality
social hierarchy
childhood
empathy
power dynamics
Mood
sad
reflective
empathetic
Type
literary
social commentary
critical
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- holiday celebrations
- school settings
- charitable events
- community festivals
Key Concepts
social stratification
economic disparity
psychological awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does class affect children's self‑esteem?
- What can be done to ensure fair treatment for all children?
A Different Perspective
The narrative may romanticize the setting, overlooking systemic oppression.
