Fruits of Culture

In The Fruits of Culture Tolstoy delivers a satirical critique of the Russian aristocracy exposing the moral and intellectual failings of the upper class. The play revolves around a group of aristocratic individuals who while publicly advocating for progress culture and enlightenment are ultimately revealed to be shallow hypocritical and morally corrupt. The story unfolds at a grand social gathering where the characters engage in conversations about art literature and societal reforms. However through their interactions Tolstoy highlights their lack of true understanding and genuine compassion for the issues they discuss. The characters are more concerned with appearances and social status than with any real change or personal integrity.