Final answer:
Leo Tolstoy inescapably questioned the meaning of life and the essence of moral order in the universe in 'My Confession.' He wrestled with the societal expectations of his status and grappled with the oppressive political reality of Russia for intellectuals, all of which led him to seek deeper philosophical and spiritual answers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question Tolstoy found himself inescapably asking during the time he wrote My Confession related to the search for the meaning of life and the moral order of the universe. In the throes of a deep existential crisis, Tolstoy questioned the value of human existence and the seemingly futile sacrifices people were called upon to make, a thought that was highlighted by the pointlessness of Russia's perennial conflicts. He expressed a profound sense of despair in contending that the more he engaged in the activities expected of someone of his status, the more strongly he felt that they lacked intrinsic meaning and purpose.
Tolstoy's scrutiny of life's purpose went beyond personal anguish; it reflected the sentiments of many during a time when intellectuals in Russia faced persecution for any engagement with politics. This climate of repression only amplified his concerns and led him to question the moral foundation of society and his own role within it. Tolstoy concluded that without a clear understanding of life's purpose, all endeavors seemed senseless, which compelled him to seek a deeper, philosophical, and spiritual grounding for his existence.