Tolstoy on Shakespeare

Tolstoy on Shakespeare is a critical essay written by the Russian author Leo Tolstoy. In this work Tolstoy argues that Shakespeares plays are overrated and lack artistic merit. He contends that they do not offer any moral or intellectual insight and are therefore inferior to the works of other great writers such as Homer Cervantes and Goethe. Tolstoy asserts that Shakespeares popularity is due to the fact that his works cater to the baser instincts of the masses rather than to any inherent artistic quality. Despite the controversy surrounding Tolstoys criticisms Tolstoy on Shakespeare is considered an important contribution to the ongoing debate over Shakespeares legacy and influence on Western literature.