Question

What is the key similarity between the characters of Gerasim and Vladimir Ivanich in Tolstoy’s The Death of Ivan Ilyich?

Answer 1

Both of them show empathy and comppasion for their fellow human beings in the book.

Answer 2

Vladimir is the son of Ivan while Gerasim is the nurse and assistant butler of the sick Ivan. The two are on the opposite poles of the family structure, one being the son of the head of the family while the other is just a mere servant to the household. But in a rather surprising move, these two characters show the same personality. They may be different in their standing in the family but both genuinely understand and worry about Ivan and his condition. They both have compassion and empathy for other while at the same time, builds connections and personal bonds with others