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Review of 'Czars'The Rurik Dynasty and Its Followers are Discussed In This Book"Czars" is an unpretentious treatment of Russian rulers from the Rurik Dynasty to the Romanovs. Great for novice scholars of Russian history.
CzarsJames P. Duffy and Vincent L. Ricci Barnes & Noble Books, 1995 The book simply named Czars is an unexpectedly decent read. While a student of Eastern European history might be doubtful at first (after all, the transliteration of the title for Russian rulers is outdated and incorrect, and some grammar mistakes may be detected in the writing), the treatment of the topic is broad without being too diluted; it is a useful overview for an efficient study of Russian rulers since the time of Rurik. The Vikings and RusCzars covers both the legends and theories behind the foundation of ancient Rus. While it is often said that the Russians invited Vikings to rule over them, scholars think this might be only part of the truth. Czars discusses the foundation of Rus, the Viking leadership (and integration of these Vikings into Rus's burgeoning society), and explains the difficulties and victories early Russian rulers faced in this Pagan land. Kiev and the MongolsA significant portion of Czars is devoted to the reign of Kiev as the center for Rus' government as well as Russian rulers' response to the Mongol Golden Horde. The development of Moscow as the center of Russia, the era of the Golden Horde's reign over Eastern Europe, and the rise and influence of the Orthodox Church are described clearly for anyone who is a novice to the subject. Ivan the Terrible, Peter the Great, and the Romanovs Interesting tidbits about some of Russia's most famous rulers can be found in the latter half of the book, dedicated to the reign of Ivan the Terrible and beyond, when history's documents survive to describe life at the Russian court in more complete detail than in previous centuries. The misfortunes of Ivan the Terrible are treated sympathetically, Peter the Great's eclectic interests are given full respect, and Catherine the Great's accomplishments are given the credit they are due. While a scholar of Russian history might find the book boring and over-simplified, a reader who is searching for a point for further research might look to Czars as a starting point. Subtopics in the book include administrative policies, the power of the Orthodox Church, the attempt to Westernize Russia, Russia's relationship with the West, the struggle for power between landed gentry and heirs to the Russian throne, military campaigns, and the private lives of the tsars. While the bibliography of references at the end of the book is not long or impressive, the genealogical tables are useful.
The copyright of the article Review of 'Czars' in Russian/Ukrainian/Belarus History is owned by Kerry Kubilius. Permission to republish Review of 'Czars' in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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