the kreutzer sonata Author:leo tolstoy the kreutzer sonata, revolving around the tragic consequences of marriage based on lust and physical desire, is a devastating portrait of nineteenth century Russian society. the enduring greatness of the novel, however, lies not in it's value as a moral manifesto but in the superb drama of its narrative. — pozdnishev, the hero-villain of the tal... more »e, is a dissolute playboy who looks upon women merely as instruments of his personal gratification. the story of the deterioration of his marriage, the beginnings of an illicit love affair and the murderous frenzy o fa jealous husband are unfolded with chilling power.« less