kibbitznest

a 501(c)(3) organization

Kibbitznest is a 501(c)3 organization. Kibbitznest, Inc is dedicated to the preservation of quality human interaction. Our ultimate objective is to promote a better understanding of the world and its people by coming together face-to-face to experience being human by teaching, by learning, by listening, by reading, by arguing, by discussing, and by inquiring. We encourage a balance between face to face and electronic communication.

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"Agony - A Small Price to Pay?: Thoughts on Tolstoy's 'The Death of Ivan Ilych'" with Claudia Traudt

  • Kibbitznest 2212 North Clybourn Avenue Chicago, IL, 60614 United States (map)
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Kibbitznest Liberal Arts Discussions are a collaboration with The University of Chicago Graham School to host presentations and discussions of original research.

Leo Tolstoy’s 1886 novella, written not too far after his 1870’s “conversion” and turning-up-of-the-burners on his religious thought, is a wonderwork of scathing satire, an expose of the empty and accepted life of a mid-level Russian judge with his family. It is written with delicious and jewel-like precision – and is not-infrequently ruefully funny. It is also a truly haunting, revealing plumbing of human psyches - in all their fears, longings, lies to self and others, escapist dodges, and finally, pulverized by the dying torments wracking his Self, spirit, and body, and touched by a few human empathies, in Ivan Ilych’s paradoxical, affirming 11th-hour breakthrough. This breakthrough—which is unparticipated-in by anyone else.

What is the price, what is the worth—the merit? We shall explore richly.

Sponsor: Kibbitznest Books, Brews & Blarney

About Claudia Traudt:

CLAUDIA TRAUDT holds an MA from the Committee on Social Thought at the University of Chicago. Her art-making, research, and teaching explore modes of creation and perception in word and image. She is the 2006 recipient of the Graham School's Excellence in Teaching Award for the Basic Program.

FREE & OPEN to the public

kibbitznest is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization and wifi-free zone dedicated to the preservation of quality face-to-face human communication.

Earlier Event: April 10
The Kibbitznest Book Club discusses "Dangerous Lies" by Becca Fitzpatrick
Later Event: April 11
Joke Nest Comedy Open Mic Night