'War and Peace' to be adapted for TV

London: Leo Tolstoy's novel ' War and Peace,' which is regarded as one of the most important works of world literature, is being made into a six-part series - due on BBC One in 2015.

The adaptation will be written by 'Pride and Prejudice' screenwriter Andrew Davies.

The new series, which is being made by BBC Wales, is a remake of BBC's 1972 series that starred Anthony Hopkins as Pierre Bezukhov.

Award-winning screenwriter Davies, whose other TV adaptations include 'Sense and Sensibility,' called the novel a "thrilling, funny and heartbreaking story of love, war and family life."

He said that the characters are so natural and human and easy to identify with and Natasha Rostova just beats Lizzy Bennet as the most lovable heroine in literature.

Faith Penhale, head of drama at BBC Wales, said that it was thrilling" to be able to bring 'War And Peace' to BBC One .

She added that today's viewers will be drawn into the sweeping story of life and love during a time of conflict, with a dazzling production that brings to life the great vision and scale of the novel.