The First Distiller

Leo Tolstoy had a profound influence on people through out the Western world. Leo Tolstoy was a Russian novelist, essayist, dramatist and philosopher. Tolstoy was a member of the aristocratic Tolstoy family. He was known as an educational reformer, pacifist and Christian anarchist. His masterpiece War and Peace made him one of the world¿s greatest novelists. His ability to depict life in 19th century Russia made him a leader in realist fiction. Tolstoy¿s stand on nonviolent resistance influenced twentieth century people such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Ghandi. The First Distiller, or How an Imp Earned a Hunk of Bread is the story of a peasant who is tempted by a demon. He becomes rich distilling his excess grain. When the entire village becomes drunk Satan is very pleased.