The Death of Ivan Ilych

A successful middle-aged judge suffered a freak accident and faces a slow, terrible death. His family and friends aren’t much help. His pain, depression, and uncertainty grow.

Memories, including his childhood, ambitions, and career, crowd into his mind. He worries that he has not lived as he should have.

As his physical and mental agonies increase, a young servant boy shows mercy and cares for him. Ivan wonders if things can be made right.

This short story by Leo Tolstoy, regarded as one of the greatest novelists, is a shocking read. It makes one think seriously and question one’s own life: Am I living as I ought to live? Am I deceiving myself? Can what’s wrong be made right before it’s too late?

Literature professor Leland Ryken considers this book one of the best Christian classics of all time. High school students can benefit from the book. It will help them think about what really matters.

Spoiler alert:

Amidst his suffering, Ivan undergoes a radical transformation, dying in hope. His incremental yet sudden change makes sense in light of biblical teachings on regeneration and justification.

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