Every student tackling Tolstoy’s War and Peace eventually realizes this is far more than just a hefty novel—it’s a masterpiece bursting with history, philosophy, and profound insights on human nature. When I first approached this classic, I found myself amazed by how deeply it captures life’s inherent contrasts—war versus peace, turmoil versus tranquility, personal ambition versus societal obligation. But choosing exactly what to focus on can feel overwhelming, given the depth and complexity Tolstoy embeds in nearly every character and event. To help ease your essay-writing journey, I’ll offer you a selection of compelling essay topics organized around major themes: character analysis, philosophical perspectives, historical context, symbolism, and thematic contrasts. Let’s dive in and uncover some interesting angles for your next assignment.