The Tolstoy, Leo, graf 1828-1910 creator Maude, Aylmer 1858-1938 Maude, Louise 1855-1939 text utu 2008 monographic en 1 online resource : multiple file formats "The Cause of it All" by graf Leo Tolstoy is a play in two acts written in the late 19th century. The work explores themes surrounding the impacts of alcohol and societal struggles within a peasant family setting. The play primarily delves into the effects of drinking on relationships and family dynamics, particularly examining how it affects the central character Michael and his interactions with his family and a wandering tramp. In this poignant yet revealing narrative, we are introduced to Akulína, an elderly matriarch, her son Michael, who struggles with alcohol addiction, and Martha, Michael's overburdened wife. As we observe the tension within their household, it becomes evident that Michael’s drinking fuels his aggression and contributes to strife in family relations. A significant event unfolds when a tramp is accused of theft after a night of staying with the family, highlighting social injustice and contributing to Michael's conflict with his wife. The play ultimately captures the dire circumstances faced by lower-class individuals and emphasizes the broader implications of substance abuse, questioning personal responsibility versus societal influences. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Release date is 2008-09-20 Produced by Bryan Ness, Jana Srna and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net Original publication data not identified Russian drama -- Translations into English PG Original publication data not identified https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/26665 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/26665 UtSlPG 260607 20260610133617.0 26665