Which of the following answers to the meaning of life did Tolstoy hold prior to his change of heart and mind?

my answer is A
a.
Life has no meaning, and we must embrace that fact.
b.
Life's meaning is to provide comfort for oneself and one's family.
c.
Life's meaning is to love and serve one's country.
d.
The question itself is absurd, because life has no meaning.

To determine which of the given answers Tolstoy held prior to his change of heart and mind, we would need to explore Tolstoy's beliefs and writings.

Leo Tolstoy, a renowned Russian writer and philosopher, experienced a profound spiritual crisis later in his life. This crisis led him to question the meaning and purpose of life, including his own existence. Prior to this change of heart and mind, Tolstoy held a more pessimistic view of life.

One of the options provided, answer D, aligns with Tolstoy's previous perspective. Tolstoy believed that life ultimately had no inherent meaning or purpose. He questioned the idea of finding a grander significance or ultimate truth to existence.

However, it is important to note that Tolstoy's beliefs and thoughts evolved over time. After his spiritual crisis, he underwent a transformative journey and developed a new understanding of life's meaning. He started to emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and service to others. His later writings showcase a more optimistic and humanitarian philosophy.

Therefore, if we are considering Tolstoy's beliefs prior to his change of heart and mind, answer D, "The question itself is absurd because life has no meaning," would be the most accurate choice.