Final answer:
Tolstoy's portrayal of the older brother as foolish challenges the notion that age equals wisdom, suggesting that deference to elders shouldn't be automatic as everyone is imperfect. This aligns with historical themes where authority figures are sometimes depicted as flawed, and with philosophical ideas on the importance of recognizing failings in those we respect.
Step-by-step explanation:
The portrayal of the older brother as foolish in Tolstoy's story can be seen as a literary device that challenges the assumption that wisdom and virtue automatically accompany age. By highlighting the older brother's imperfections, Tolstoy suggests that age does not inherently grant superiority. This narrative choice dispels the idea that younger individuals should always show deference to their elders, acknowledging that everyone, regardless of age, has flaws and that each person's actions should be judged on their own merit rather than on the basis of their age alone.
This perspective aligns with historical examinations like the one by Maureen Perrie, who analyzed how authority figures, such as the tsar in Russian folklore, were sometimes seen as foolish, while often being the benevolent protectors of the poor. Moreover, Aristotle's views on how mistakes made by nobles could serve as lessons for the common citizen suggest that recognizing errors in those we look up to is a key element in moral and societal development. In light of this, Tolstoy's decision to depict the older brother as flawed serves to illustrate the complexity of human nature and encourages readers to rethink hierarchical deference.