The Death of Ivan the Terrible - A Tragedy in Five Acts

Set against the backdrop of 16th-century Russia, this historical drama explores the tumultuous reign of Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible. The narrative delves into his transformation from a unifying ruler to a paranoid tyrant, highlighting his violent actions, including the murder of his heir, which precipitated a period of chaos known as the "Time of Troubles." Influenced by Shakespeare, this work is a significant piece of Russian literature, reflecting on the costs of power and ambition. It is part of Tolstoy's dramatic trilogy, banned upon release.