Aylmer and Louise Maude

Aylmer Maude (1858-1938)

Aylmer and Louise Maude were prominent British translators known for their translations of Leo Tolstoy's works into English. Their translations are still widely read and respected for their accuracy and literary quality.

Early Life

Aylmer Maude was born on 28 March 1858 in London, England. He was educated at Eton College and later attended Trinity College, Cambridge. Louise Maude, née Shanks, was born on 25 January 1855 in Russia to British parents. She was educated in Russia and was fluent in Russian from a young age.

Marriage and Collaboration

Aylmer and Louise Maude married in 1884. Their shared interest in Russian literature and culture led them to collaborate on translating the works of Leo Tolstoy. They moved to Russia for a period, where they became acquainted with Tolstoy and his family. This close relationship provided them with unique insights into Tolstoy's works and philosophy.

Translations

The Maudes are best known for their translations of Tolstoy's major works, including War and Peace, Anna Karenina, and Resurrection. Their translations are noted for their fidelity to the original text and their readability. They also translated Tolstoy's shorter works, essays, and letters.

Legacy

The Maudes' translations have had a lasting impact on the reception of Tolstoy's works in the English-speaking world. Their translations are still in print and are often used in academic settings. The Maudes also wrote extensively about Tolstoy, including biographies and critical studies, further contributing to the understanding of his life and works.

Selected Works

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, translated by Aylmer and Louise Maude
• Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, translated by Aylmer and Louise Maude
• Resurrection by Leo Tolstoy, translated by Aylmer and Louise Maude

See Also

• Leo Tolstoy
• War and Peace
• Anna Karenina
• Resurrection (novel)
• Russian literature
• Translation