Ivan IV - Terrible and Awesome
This Medieval Russian Ruler is Well Remembered for Cruelty
Jun 2, 2008
Ivan IV is called “The Terrible” in English, though in Russian, his name translates to “The Awesome.” Nevertheless, Ivan VI truly was terrible at the end of his reign, when effects of childhood abuse, grief over the death of his wife, and mental instability replaced fair rule and an interest in progress for 16th century Russia.
Ivan IV's Terrible Childhood
Ivan IV's childhood was tumultuous. He grew up without parental guidance or care; his mother was murdered by boyars and his father was long dead. Ivan was seen publicly dressed in the rich robes befitting his status as future ruler of Russia, but otherwise he was forgotten by all but his nurse. Those in charge of government fought viciously and violently among themselves, and Ivan IV was exposed to the cruelty, backstabbing, fights, and manipulation that occurred at the Moscow Court.
Ivan IV's escape was books. He was an avid reader, which most probably contributed to his future ability to reign skillfully despite poor role models during his youth. Even so, Ivan IV delighted in torturing animals, and his cruel streak was on display towards the end of his reign.
Ivan IV Comes to Power
Having had enough of squabbling amongst the boyars who controlled the court, Ivan IV announced his intention to take over leadership of Russia. This occurred when he was still a teenager. He soon married Anastasia, with whom he had six children. Only two boys survived until adulthood. Anastasia succumbed to illness; her death probably resulted from natural causes, but Ivan IV was used to court intrigue and blamed her premature death on the boyars. This began Ivan IV's slide into what some experts believe was insanity.
The Reign of Ivan the Terrible
Before the death of Anastasia, Ivan the Terrible contributed to the advancement of Russia as a global power. He advanced trade, engaged Russia in a relationship with England, invited artisans to teach Moscow's citizens new trades, expanded the borders of the nation, and emphasized learning.
After the death of Anastasia, Ivan IV withdrew into himself and even threatened to abdicate the throne. He attacked the city of Novgorod without any reasonable provocation. Church leaders, suspected of treason, were murdered in front of their congregations. One of the well-known facts about Ivan the Terrible is the murder of his son, Ivan, who was to succeed when Ivan IV ended his rule. The elder Ivan bludgeoned his son with a staff during an argument, sending the younger Ivan into a coma and eventually to his death.
References
Duffey, James P. and Ricci, Vincent L. Czars: Russia's Rulers for Over One Thousand Years. New York: Barnes & Noble Books, 1995.
Massie, Suzanne. Land of the Firebirds: The Beauty of Old Russia. Blue Hill: HeartTree Press, 1980
