The novella begins with the news of the death of Ivan Ilyich Golovin, a respected high court judge in 19th-century Russia, and the reactions of his colleagues and family, who are more concerned with promotions and the social obligations of the funeral than genuine grief.
The story then retraces Ivan Ilyich's life, described by Tolstoy as "very simple and very ordinary, and therefore most terrible." His life flows quietly and orderly, dedicated to pursuing social advancement, career, and maintaining appearances in the eyes of society, often neglecting sincere and deep relationships, including those with his wife and children.
A turning point occurs when Ivan Ilyich suffers a seemingly harmless injury while hanging curtains in his new home. This injury develops into a painful terminal illness, forcing him to face the inevitable reality: his own death. In the midst of his suffering, he begins to question the validity and meaning of the shallow life he has led.
His only source of solace and comfort is his servant, Gerasim, a young peasant who faces death with simplicity and genuine compassion, a sharp contrast to the ostentatiousness of those around Ivan. Through his interactions with Gerasim and painful internal reflection, Ivan Ilyich realizes that he has neglected the authentic aspects of life. In his final moments, he achieves spiritual enlightenment and acceptance, and his fear of death disappears.