Why is Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina still so popular today?

Rosamund Bartlett, the translator behind the new Oxford World’s Classics edition of Anna Karenina, talks about why the great novel is still so popular today. Drawing on her own experiences, she highlights how an appreciation of the complex novel can benefit from rereading.

[cinematiccatnip]

I heard about this older woman learning Russian and mastering it into her late 50s with the strong purpose and goal of reading the classics in Russian. maybe I should do so as I am in my 20s?

[meto]

I am just finishing her translation, and I find it spectacular. There is not one dull moment in this work of art, so multi-layered and beautifully written.

[grasshoppa]

Recently, I was gifted a copy of this book (though not this translation) by a Ukrainian friend I met during the summer. I have been entirely enamored by Tolstoy and his story. It's a breath taking experience that drags you through these "gray" areas and spares no expense on vivid imagery and emotional appeal. I'm a biology student at University, and this book has made me consider Russian as a second major or a minor just because I have been so enthralled by the depth and experience while reading.

[zaraustra]

Because it's one of the greatest and much richest novels ever written. I absolutely love it, teaches us so much about Russian culture and history too.

[dewinthemorning]

I have to find this new Oxford World's Classics edition of "Anna Karenina". It would be interesting to read "Anna Karenina" in English. When I first read it as a teenager, I remember I read it so carefully, never missed even a word in a sentence, couldn't put the book down. I agree, it's not only about a love affair. It's not black and white. The reader can take so much away from Tolstoy's book!

[russianliterature]

Yes, sure, this book is the best one to look at Russia of those years. My favourite one. Thank you for the video!

[ggrey]

This is an interesting introduction - but where is the rest?

[monoman]

i have started it at 55, but on audio book on multi repeat., i wouldn't have done it elsewise..

[jianwen]

Im reading the English translation now. If only i can read Russian!

[stellaercolani]

The book is excellent, minus presentation.

[deeplorable]

It's odd that women love this book so much?

[breakfestburrito]

yes
yes
yes
right
sure
yes
was it
ok
sure
yes
we change
ok
right
right
right
yes
yes
ok
right
sure
sure
right
yes