Anna Karenina chose to have an affair because, despite her material wealth and societal status, she lacked emotional and spiritual connection in her marriage. Her husband, Karenin, viewed their marriage as a duty bestowed by religion and society, offering her no genuine love. This void led her to seek fulfillment elsewhere, ultimately leading to her affair with Vronsky.
Anna Karenina's main issue was her inability to find the intense emotional and spiritual connection she craved. She realized that neither her husband nor Vronsky could provide the profound love she sought. Her pursuit of love was not merely about romance but about a deeper existential need that remained unfulfilled.
Karenin reacted to Anna's affair by framing it as a violation of religious and societal rules. He offered to 'forgive' her, not out of love, but to maintain his own reputation and the appearance of a stable marriage. His response reinforced Anna's realization that he did not truly love her, further deepening her despair.
Tolstoy's portrayal of Anna Karenina is unique because it delves deeply into the emotional and psychological struggles of a woman seeking love and fulfillment in a rigid societal structure. His ability to empathize with Anna's inner turmoil and present it with such depth, especially as a male author, showcases his profound understanding of human emotions and societal constraints.
Tolstoy contrasts Anna's story with Levin's narrative to explore universal themes of love, suffering, and existential fulfillment. While Anna's story focuses on the personal and emotional consequences of her choices, Levin's narrative delves into broader philosophical and spiritual questions about life, love, and human connection. This duality elevates the novel to a profound exploration of the human condition.
Through Anna Karenina's story, Tolstoy critiques the societal norms and expectations that prioritize appearances and duty over genuine emotional connection and personal fulfillment. Anna's tragic fate highlights the limitations placed on women in her position and the societal condemnation of those who dare to seek love and freedom outside prescribed boundaries.