Tolstoy's novel is a realistic representation of the mercenary Russian society. The hero Ivan llyich is an ambitious youth caught up in desires and impulses and in the end he struggles for liberation from suffering through introspection. Readers can identify with Ivan, a middle class careerist, in his search for success and his last longing for spiritual enlightenment. his life reveals the moral and ethical which are the hallmarks of Tolstoy. the style attains scriptural solemnity. Ivan pursues the life of comforts and luxury that comes with high income. the novel begins with grim news of Ivan llych's death and followed by a naturalistic description of the cynical behavior of his colleagues and his wife.
Hope this gives you a good start :D