Question

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

Answer 1

They both show an empathy with, and compassion for their fellow human beings in the book. 

Answer 2

The key similarity between Gerasim and Vladimir is that they both have empathy and compassion for their fellow human beings.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gerasim is the nurse of Ivan and also the butler's assistant while Vladimir is the son of Ivan. In contrast to Vladimir, Gerasim is a poor man, who had to serve Vladimir's family in order to get money while Vladimir is already a rich man, being the son of the family. But both characters have the ability to sympathize, have compassion and empathy for the other people. this is the main similarity of the two characters, irrespective of their social standing.