The Death of Ivan Ilyich

This work of Leo Tolstoy is considered his best after "war and peace." And much shorter! "It is one of the most lacerating works of literature ever written, a hard, pitiless stare into the abyss, not just of death, but of human nature." What makes it a classic is its relevance to today and our lives. It affords us a sense of urgency to our life and death. Reading the book is a prerequisite for the class discussion. The book can be purchased online, and may be free on some sites.