If you think your commute is bad, try crossing 19th-century Russia in a blizzard. In Master and Man, the wealthy merchant Vasili Andreich is determined to reach a neighboring town to buy a woodland estate before a competitor can. He forces his loyal, long-suffering servant Nikita to accompany him on a sleigh ride that starts in cold weather and quickly turns into a life-threatening snowstorm.

The Story

Vasili is driven by greed and ambition, ignoring all warnings about the worsening weather. Nikita, who has served him for years, follows without complaint, accepting his lot in life. As they get hopelessly lost in the white void, their dynamic begins to shift. The master's frantic panic contrasts with the servant's quiet resilience. In their final, desperate hours, a profound change occurs in Vasili, leading to a moment of sacrifice that redefines everything about their relationship.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't just a survival story. It's a razor-sharp look at social class and what we value. Tolstoy sets up these two men as opposites—one consumed by material gain, the other by simple duty—and then strips everything away until only their humanity is left. The blizzard acts like a pressure cooker for the soul. By the end, you're left wondering who the real 'master' is. It’s a compact, powerful punch of a story that sticks with you.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who wants a taste of classic Russian literature without committing to a huge novel. It's also great for readers who love character-driven stories where the setting is a character itself. If you've ever felt rushed by life and wondered what you're missing, this century-old tale has some startlingly relevant things to say.