Russian Civilization Midterm

Who was Richard Chancellor?

A group of English merchants, looking with envy at the wealth which the Sapniards and Portuguese had found in the New World, went on three ships to find a new route to the New World. The captain of the ship Bonaventure was Richard Chancellor. Because of heavy fog and poor weather conditions, the Bonaventura separated from the other ships and got off track. Chancellor arrived at Muscovy. The then arrived at Mosco, the wooden city and greeted Ivan the Terrible.

French influences in the arts.

A lot of the artistic achievements of Catherine's reign were due to the foundation set up by Elizabeth. There was a program in place where exceptionally talented students could go to study at the Academy in France. There they learned from the grates, such as Nicholas Francois Gillet. With these scholarships, these artists were sent to France, so when they returned, a lot of the styles and techniques they used were French in nature, so the French had a strong influence in the arts.

What was "The Time of Troubles?"

After the death of Boris, an eight-year period of Russian history known as "The Time of Troubles" had begun. There were many invasions after the death of Boris. In five years, four tsars sat in the Kremlin, all who were swiftly overthrown. The Swedes invaded and seized Novgorod, a second false Dmitry appeared, and robbers roamed the land and the Poles occupied Moscow and captured the Kremlin. Together the two men managed to raise a national militia, repulse the invaders, and recapture the Kremlin. A statue dedicated to them stands in Moscow to this dame.

How did Boris Godunov come to power?

After the death of Ivan's son Feodor, there was no dynasty left and a new ruler needed to be chosen. Many candidates were considered, and one of the least likely was Boris Godunov. Although he had been the close adviser and friend of Ivan the Terrible and his sister married to Tsar Feodor, Boris was a commoner and even a half-Tatar. But, perhaps stage-managed by Boris himself, the army and aloud city mob noisily demanded that he be elected Tsar.

What are some of the causes for the fall of the Kievan state?

After the death of Vladimir Monomakh, despite the warnings of the church, the Kieven princes feuded for many years among themselves. Disunited, they were unprepared to face the cataclysm that engulfed them.

Alexander—the golden prince of everyone's dreams.

Alexander was Paul's oldest son. There were great hopes around Alexander for he head been reared by Catherine to be the ideal ruler. She carefully supervised his education along the philosophical lines that she favored. The best teachers were found for him. He had a lot of vague liberal ideas, but no actual practical experience. Alexander seemed like the golden prince of everyone's dreams. He was tall, blond, majestic, with a classic forehead, a straight nose, and bright blue eyes.

What are some similarities in personality and the manner of ruling Russia among Vladimir, Ivan the Terrible, and Peter?

All three of them loved Russia and wanted it to succeed and become better than it currently was. Because of this, each ruler was strict. All three had a love for the arts and education. Under the rule of these people, there were great architectural feats. Under Vladimir, came much of what is considered classical church architecture. Under Ivan came St. Basil's Cathedral, and under Peter came St. Petersburg. Ivan and Peter also had a poor relationship with their sons. Ivan accidently killed his son, while Peter ended up killing his son as well. Ivan and Peter had great plans for Russia and were disappointed by their children.

Trezzini.

Along the banks of the Neva, Trezzini in 1710 made plans for a Summer Palace for Peter and then later for a Winter Palace. Trezzini built two Winter Palaces for Peter, the first one was made of wood, and the second of stone.

What was social life like in the reign of Elizabeth?

Huge balls for as many as four hundred couples were given once, and sometimes twice, a week. There were masquerades of all kinds. There were even parties where men were encouraged to dress as women, and women as men. During the summer there were hunting parties and picnics. In the winter there were sleigh rides.

What is "The Golden Horde?"

In Mongolia, the Great Khan was poisoned by a jealous woman, according to legend. As it was the Mongol custom to elect the new Khan from among his kinsmen, Batu turned back his troops and withdrew to the East and established his capital in Saray on the lower Volga. This Mongol stronghold came to be known as the Golden Horde, from the Mongol word form camp and because yellow was the imperial color of the Khan and his can.

What was Vladimir called in Russian folklore?

In Russian folklore Vladimir is called "The Bright Sun" not only because he first adopted Christianity for Russia, but also because he was a genial host who was the epitome of brotherhood and love. He held great feasts with his court and sent wagons loaded with bread, meat, fish, vegetables, and mead through the city to be distributed to the poor and sick. Also, Vladimir mitigated the Byzantine legal code in Kiev; there was no death penalty in Russia, nor any torture.

How did Russians react to Peter's Westernization?

In conservative Moscow, Peter's actions were regarded with sheer horror and as a sin. Men hid their shaven bears under their pillows. Many people were offended by Peter's suggestion that boyers shave their beards. A beard in Russia was the mark of a real man, and a true believer. There was great respect for beards, and it was quite a scandal what Peter was doing. Men hid their shaven bears under their pillows.

What are "bogatyry?"

In its greatest days Kiev was governed by princes and brave knights. These nights were called bogatyry. It was analogous to King Arthur's Knights of the Round Table. These men were often very humble and had great imagination. There are still many, many songs of these bogatyry and stories of their brave deeds and humbleness. These knights would help advise Vladimir "The Bright Sun."

What was Ivan the Terrible's attitude toward the arts (music, writing, etc.)?

Ivan had a great love for the arts. He loved to read, and he could quote many bible passages from memory. He also had a love for music. He enjoyed singing, and sometimes even wrote hymns. He also had a great interest in the arts of Jewelry. There was great artistic experimentation during Ivan's reign.

Who are the "Oprichniki?"

Ivan pillaged an murdered people all over the land and formed a group of six thousand handpicked men called the Oprichiniki, who, loyal to him alone, wandered the land stealing and murdering while ostensibly rooting out those who they saw as "traitors."

Ivan the IV. Ivan Grozny. His "good" and "bad" periods.

Ivan the IV, or Tsar Ivan Vasilievich was also known as Ivan Grozny, from the Russian word for thunder. The word means "awesome" though. He reigned for 52 years and during his reign he inspired respect, fear, and pity. Both of his parents died at a very early age. The boyar families who ruled at this time treated Ivan and his brother with disrespect. After the death of his wife, Ivan was grief stricken, and his grief turned to paranoia against the boyars. He could no longer trust anybody. This mark the start of his "bad" periods. His "good" period coincided with the years when he was happiest.

Paul was an Emperor 1796-1801.

Paul was a bizarre and eccentric ruler, he was both a reformer and tyrant. His first act as ruler was to not allow women to rule Russia. Pault prided himself on being able to withstand subzero temperatures. Paul tore down Elizabeth's beautiful wooden Summer palace. Paul was widely detested.

What kind of relationship did Peter have with his son, Alexis?

Peter and Alexis, the one surviving son by his first wife never got along. The son feared his father, and the father grew to despise the son. As Alexis grew older, he became the center of many plots to overthrow Peter. Later, Peter arrested and imprisoned his son.

What is the architectural significance of the Peter and Paul Fortress?

Peter and Paul Fortress and church was designed with its 400-foot tower surmounted by a gilded spire made entirely of wood that stretched hundreds of feet into the sky. It was a startling difference to a country primarily dominated by cupola, a striking statement of Peter's determination to break with national traditions.

Why did he build St. Petersburg on that particular spot?

Peter built St. Petersburg on that spot because of its proximity to the sea, and also to Europe. Peter knew that Russia could never rival Europe if Russia was not connected to the oceans. St. Petersburg was Russia's window into Europe.

What kind of people did Peter ask to come to Russia?

Peter got all sorts of people: engineers, surgeons, artists, seamen, gunners, goldsmiths, astronomers, and even mathematicians. On his first Grand Embassy alone, over eight hundred people skilled in various specialties were hired and sent back to Russia.

What was Peter's childhood like?

Peter had a difficult childhood. When he was ten years old, the palace guards revolted and murdered the supporters of his mother. The good Artemon Matveev was seized and before Peter's eyes was thrown onto the spears of the palace guards in the courtyard. A lot of Peter's time was spent outside of the Kremlin, and only when he needed to, for ceremonial occasions, was he brought back.

Why do you think Peter hated the Kremlin?

Peter hated the Kremlin because it grew to represent all he hated about his past. When Alexis died, there were a lot of feuds and struggles for power between rival families of Alexis' first and second wives. Sooner o r later a truce was made between the warring clans and Peter and his retarded half brother Ivan were named as joint tsars. Despite this, there was still a lot of bloody arguments and struggles for power.

How did Peter change Russia after his trip to the West? What kind of thing did he introduce?

Peter made Russia a lot more like Europe. In addition to the beards, Peter also cut off the long sleeves of men's kaftans and ordered that Western-style jackets, cocked hats and buckled shoes to be worn from then on. Peter also made war on the seclusion of women. Women were to cast off their veils and head coverings, and dress in the European fashion with tight waists. He was also determined to create a modern army for Russia. He also founded schools of navigation and mathematics, geography, politics and medicine, philosophy, and astronomy.

How did Peter learn about Western traditions and innovations before he went to Europe?

Peter spent a lot of his time not in the Kremlin, but around the villages where the Europeans lived, especially the German suburb. There, he learned many new skills and trades. He was particularly fascinated with sailing and ships, specifically English ships.

Why did Peter want to build the city of St. Petersburg?

Peter wanted to build a new capital that would rival the West and symbolize his aspirations for his country. He did not like the Kremlin and all that it stood for and he wanted Russia to be more European, so this was the perfect answer for him.

What was Peter's reaction when he saw all the novelties in Europe?

Peter was extremely curious. Although he worked under the false alias of Peter Mikhailov, he did not let that stop his curiosity. Whenever he would see something new he would ask, "what is that," or "show it to me." He even had a notebook which he would constantly write notes in.

"Potemkin village."

Potemkin organized for Catherine and a group of distinguished visitors from Europe a lavish trip down to the Crimea. As they floated down the Dnieper River, the guests passed new towns, some that were already constructed and others only planned. For the planned ones, Potemkin ordered that painted facades be erected and peasants transported from miles away to give the appearance of real towns. The term "Potemkin villages" has since passed into the language as a word almost synonymous with hoax.

Why do you think Russians liked Catherine?

Russians liked Catherine for several reasons. First, she was a follower of trends and people. Catherine also considered publicity an essential arm of government, and she developed a supreme talent for publicizing herself and her activities. Additionally, Catherine believed in the very progressive enlightenment ideas which spoke of liberty and freedom. She even called Washington "a rebel" because he imposed censorship on Voltaire's writings.

What kind of warriors were the Mongols?

The Mongols lived for war. They were capable of staying on horseback for day on end without tiring. If they found themselves without food, they drew blood from their horses' veins and drank it. With their bows they could shoot as skillfully facing backwards as forward and unquestioningly obeyed the terrible discipline of their leaders. Genghis Khan ordered that if any of them were taken captive in battle, that those who returned would be executed. The Mongols burned everything in their path.

How did the Russians humanize the Byzantine church rite?

The Russian humanized Byzantine church rite by making it less formal. There are no pews or chairs. To sit down would be a lack of respect to the presence of God. Everybody stands, no matter how long the service lasts. In the Orthodox Church, people can more around as freely as they wish. The overall message is that the worshipers are not treated as Christian soldiers, but as children in their Father's house.

How did the Russians humanize the icon?

The Russians humanized the icon by using bright colors and painting saints with compassionate and tender eyes. Thus the icons were filed with life, love, and sometimes even humor. There was a period in time when Russian paintings were almost only icon paintings and many schools of icon paintings developed, each different but nonetheless concentrating on humanizing the icon.

What was the reaction of the Russians to St. Petersburg?

The Russians saw St. Petersburg not only as a further threat on tradition, but also as foolish. St. Petersburg was built on the bones of all those people who helped in its construction. Overall, the Russians saw it foolish to build such a city in an extremely hostile climate that was prone to not only floods, but also fires.

What was the state of the arts in the reign of Elizabeth?

The arts flourished during the time of Elizabeth. The era was actually called the "Age of Song." She brought Italian and German singers to Russia and summoned Ukrainian choirs to accompany them. Many Operas were even translated to Russian and then performed in the newly built opera houses. A public theater was also opened. Elizabeth also loved dance and she was even called the best dancer of her time. European artists began coming to St. Petersburg.

St. Basil's Cathedral. Who were the architects? Why was it built?

To celebrate his victory over the Tatars of Kazan, Ivan ordered the building of a great church. The two architects he chose were from Pskov. Their names were Barma and Postnik. The Tsar ordered that it be built in the shape of the eight-pointed star of the Virgin as a cluster of domed chapels. Each chapel was to be dedicated to the saint whose feast corresponded with the eight decisive victories over the Mongols. As legends says it, the Ivan ordered the architects to be blinded, so that they would never create anything so beautiful ever again.

The Bronze Horseman.

To move the block of rock from which the horseman was to be built, it took four hundred men about 2 years to move it. It is a symbol of St. Petersburg similar to How the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of New York.

For how long was Russia under the Mongols?

Two hundred years

What were the origins of serfdom in Russia?

Under Boris Godunov, there were great famines. He tried to fix this by dispensing food very generously and compassionately, and because of this he was called "Boris the Bright-Souled." Regardless, people still kept leaving the country, and because of this, Boris instituted the first laws tying people to their land. This began the institution of serfdom.

Moscow, "The Third Rome"

When Constantinople fell to the Moslem Turks, Moscow proudly declared itself to be the "Third Rome," the last bastion of the true church in all Christendom. The first Rome, it was argued, had fallen to the barbarians because of heresy the second, Constantinople, had been captured and pillaged by infidels. The doctrine said that Moscow would be the "Third Rome," and that there shall be no fourth.

Holy Trinity Monastery

The Holy Trinity Monastery became a dynamic center of spiritual teaching and the greatest religious house of the land. Within the walls of the monastic city were schools, craftsmen's shops, and artistic studios.

Byzantium at the time of Vladimir.

Constantinople was the most important political and cultural center in Europe. The literacy and state language of the Byzantine Empire was Greek. Constantinople served as the preserver of Christian thought as well as the ancient arts of Greece and Rome. Constantinople was a beautiful place that blended the ancient with the modern, and where one could find the most extreme luxury, and the most extreme ascetic.

What was Peter's taste in architectural design and indoor furnishing?

He liked houses that were not so much in styles characteristic of tsars, but more so of nobles. Peter's Summer Palace, for example, had windows in all the rooms that were wide and latticed; this allowed the wind, and the sun to get in, in addition to the beautiful views of the water. With this in mind, he liked to surround his wife in luxury. Her apartments were filled with silk wallpaper woven with gold and silver tapestries.

Montferrand.

He was a French architect. Monteferrant designed the largest monolith column in the world which was erected in the Palace Square to commemorate the Russian victory over Napoleon.

What kind of architectural design did Catherine like?

As soon as she became Empress, everything Elizabethan swiftly fell out of style. Catherine had no deep love or feeling for native forms of art and architecture. She did not like Moscow and she complained of the hostile atmosphere she found there. What came out of this was a neoclassical style. At this time, Russia mimicked what was popular in Europe. St. Petersburg was transformed into a granite capital. She even commissioned a granite equestrian statue of Peter the Great.

Why did Novgorod not fall to the Mongols?

As the Mongols prepared to attack Novgorod, a miracle of nature saved the city. The spring had melted the ice of the surrounding marshes and made them impassable for horsemen, so the Mongols wheeled and went south, ravaging all before them, and in 1240 rode down on Kiev.

Adrian Zakharov.

He was a Russian architect who studied in Paris and Italy. He rebuilt Peter's Admiralty. He helped create a unique Russian style.

Carlo Rossi.

Carlo Rossi was the illigimate son of an Italian ballerina. He was Alexander's favorite architect. He designed buildings in the neoclassic style Rossi designed the Senate and Synod buildings and completed the dsign of the huge Winter Palace Square. Rossi also designed the Alexandrinsky Theater.

How did Catherine's style of reign differ from that of Elizabeth's?

Catherine's style was completely different from Elizabeth's. Elizabeth rled from the heart; Catheirne ruled from the head. In contrast to Elizabeth's disordered pleasure-loving existence, Catherine was usually in bed by 11, and rose at five in the morning. She worked on state papers and wrote not only her own laws, but the arguments in their favor and philosophical commentaries on them. She partook in heavy reading, especially philosophy. She had a need to be admired, and to be loved. She was very influenced by enlightenment ideas, especially by Voltaire.

Who were Boris and Gleb? What did they symbolize? In what way were they Christ-like?

Boris and Gleb were two of the most revered figures of the early Christian Russians and the first two saints canonized by the church. They were both the sons of Vladimir. They both symbolize the voluntary acceptance of suffering and death and peaceful nonresistance to injustice. They were Christ-like in their meekness and acceptance of their fate when Svyatopolk, Vladimir's eldest son seized the brothers' principalities and assassinated them.

What are "byliny?"

Byliny were the epic songs of early Russia. Many were about the bogatyry and Vladimir.

What were some of the trades Peter learned in Europe?

He worked as a seemen, carpenter, in a paper factory, as an engraver, he learned human anatomy, surgery, art, and many others.

Why Catherine was called the "Great?"

Catherine's title of "Great" is due mainly to her conquests. She gained immense territories. One-fourth of the area of Europe was added to Russia—Poland, the Crimea and large parts of Turkey. The army and navy were doubled. She did not do this alone though. She had a great talent for surrounding herself with clever and gifted men. Some of these great statesmen and soldiers came to be called "Catherinian Eagles"

How did the tsars select their brides?

Courtiers were sent all over the kingdom and all eligible girls of marriageable age were presented to them. The chosen maidens were then brought to Moscow where they slept in special houses. In each room there was a throne where the tsar would seat himself. Each girl knelt before him and he would look at her for as long as he needed to. He dismissed her by throwing a handkerchief embroidered with pearls and gems on her bosom. Choices were narrowed down and then they were examined by midwives and doctors.

What are some of the contradictions about his character?

His love of art, literature, music, prayer, and writing, were contradictory to the murders he committed of the people he saw as "traitors." Ironically, as time went on Ivan became more aggressive, and more religious.

What was happening in the arts in the 1600s?

During the reign of Alex, the artistic activites of the Armory Palace reached their height. The Armory Palace became the headquarters of nearly everything that concerned the fine arts and crafts. Alexis loved greens and blues, and because of this preference, the enamels of his day were executed in a harmony of greens, blues, whites, and yellows, sometimes even accented with reds. Church art had reached its peek in lavishness and beauty.

Who was Alexander Nevsky?

During the time that the Mongols were ravaging Russia, certain European powers decided that the time was opportune for invading Novgorod and seizing it for Catholicism. In 1236 the Swedes, incited by a new Pope, attacked, but Alexander of Novgorod conquered them and was from thenceforth known as Alexander Nevsky. Later, the Teutonic Knights invaded and once again Alexander Nevsky was victorious, defeating them in the famous battle on the ice of Lake Peipus.

How did Catherine the Great, a non-Russian, manage to become the Empress of Russia?

Elizabeth chose her nephew, Karl Peter Ulrich to be the next ruler of Russia. This was not a very good choice because he was starved for affection, introverted, nervous, and shy. But more than that, he hated Russia and everything that it meant to be Russian. Elizabeth knew that the only way to save the problem was by giving him a good wife. She chose Sophia, a girl who came from one of the poorest German princely families. Sophia embraced all that it meant to be Russian, learning the culture, language, and history. Later, she was named Catherine and married Peter. After the death of Elizabeth, Catherine staged a coup, after which Peter died due to unknown reasons.

Which of the arts delighted Elizabeth the most?

Elizabeth loved music. Elizabeth loved to sing and listen to music. During her lifetime she collected folk songs and even wrote some music which was included in the first songbook compiled in Russia. During her coronation, she had a five thousand seat opera house constructed. Her husband, Razumovky was a singer and had one of the most beautiful voices in the land

Why did Russians like Elizabeth?

Elizabeth spent a lot of her time living in the countryside of Moscow because she was seen as a threat to the people in power. Because of this, she got to know a lot of people and they got to know her. Elizabeth embodied what it meant to be Russian at the time. She loved dancing, she was always friendly (even with the peasants), and beautiful. For many people she was a sort of Cinderella figure. They loved her for her generosity, vivid beauty, but most of all because she was so Russian.

Dmitry Donskoy

Encouraged by the saintly Sergius, it was a Muscovite prince, Dmitry, who won the first victory of the Mongols at Kulikovo on the Don in 1380. For this reason he became known as Dmitry Donskoy. Before the battle, Dmitry first went to consult with Sergius at the Troitsky Monastery.

Falconet

Falconet was a French sculptor who was summoned to make the equestrian statue of Peter the Great. The base of the statue would be a huge block of granite. It took Falconet 11 years to complete his statue.

Social life in the time of Ivan the Terrible. What were the banquets like in Russia in the time of Ivan the Terrible?

Feasting and banquets played an important part in the life of every class in Muscovy. Social life revolved around great banquets held on feast days when friends and relations made merry together, sometimes getting very drunk. During these festivities, jugglers and musicians entertained; beggars were fed in the antechamber. Even daily meals were so copious and lengthy that it was an inviolate national custom for everyone to take a long nap in the afternoon. These banquets reflected a Russian love of lavishness and magnificence. His banquets were spectacles. These banquets could even last three days. For many visitors, they were almost a test of endurance.

What were some of the problems in building St. Petersburg?

First of all, the Swedish enemy was very close, but perhaps the biggest problem was nature. The climate is terrible. The river is frozen six months of the year. The island of the delta are marshy. The city had to be built on wooden piles sunk into this shifting swampy ground. Many people died while building it.

What is the significance of the cap of Vladimir Monomakh?

His golden sable-bordered cap of state was carried in the coronation of every Russian tsar down through the last, as a symbol of the continuity of the ideals of ancient Kiev. Vladimir Nonomakh was both brave and chivalrous. In the will he left to his children, he speaks of long journeys and of many battles and perils.

Architecture during Elizabeth's reign.

For twenty years from her coronation until her death, Restrelli was Elizabeth's architect and he had a lot of freedom to build whatever he wanted. He and his disciples designed every major building both inside and outside the capital. Elizabeth suggested to Rastrelli that he return to the architectural period before Peter because she loved Russian culture so much.

How did Russia change under the Mongols / Tatars?

For two centuries a great silence fell over the Russian land. All contacts with the West were severed. Russia virtually disappeared from the map of Europe. Earlier, as the Slavs had expanded and absorbed the land, they had fallen into two natural divisions: the Great Russians and the Little Russians. After the Mongol invasion, the Little Russians were cut off from the Great Russians. The Russians retained an abiding fear of the East and a resentment of the West that had deserted them in their hour of need. From the Great Khans they had learned the art of despotic rule.

What was the relationship between Catherine and Potemkin?

Grigory Potemkin was her lover, closest adviser, her foreign minister, her commander in chief, and most likely her husband. He supported her throne, executed her vast projects, founded cities and conquered a kingdom. Much of her greatness was due to their partnership. Their relationship was the first time when Catherine was madly in love. He was later unfaithful and he grew tired of her. She still kept him as a trusted advisor and friend.

The role of icons

Icons were far more than paintings; they were palpable evidence of things hidden and a testimony to the possibility of man's participation in the transfigured world which he sought to contemplate. The role of icons changed and could have a different meaning for every worshiper. It allowed worshipers to inter into the spiritual world, and to redeem him or her in beauty and art. The icons also had a role in making the Church as beautiful as it was, so that stepping inside the Church was as if one was stepping inside the Kingdom of God.

What changes in the Moscow Kremlin were made under Ivan III?

Ivan embarked on a vast building project of new and magnificent churches in the Kremlin. At that time, the Italians were the most famous buildids of the day, called on for construction project all over Europe.

Lomonosov

Lomonosov was the greatest intellectual figure of Elizabeth's age. He was a scientist and thinker, and was decades ahead of his time in his work with thermodynamics and physical chemistry. Lomonosov was the son of peasants and schooled by the church; he arrived in Petersburg at 25. Lomonosov was also a poet, essayist, dramatist, and historian. He even helped write a biography of Peter the Great.

Old Believers.

Many people saw the changes that Nikon was making as an attack on the true church and Russian life. These people called themselves the "Old Believers," and they broke away from the established church. Because of this, the unity of the Russian Orthodox Church was weekend so much so that it turned to the state for support. Later the church would be ruled under the close supervision of a tsar.

Who were Patrick Gordon, Francis Lefort, and Prince Menshikov?

Menshikov was one of Peter's friends who he had met selling meat pies in Red Square. Menshikov became Peter's best friend and closest lieutenant. He was important in the formation of the Preobrazhensky and Semyonovsky Guards, the elite units of the Russian Army. Francis Lefort was a Genevan soldier-adventurer, and Gordon was a canny Scottish mercenary. Lefort and Peter actually set out to Europe together.

Michael Romanov.

Michael Romanov was the grandnephew of Ivan the Terrible, a descendent of Ivan's wife. Michael ruled for thirty-two years. He was frequently bored with public policy, and because of this he chose capable advisers and peace gradually returned to the land. Michael was very serious in public; he often never smiled, but when he was in private, he often had jesters dressed in bright blue and red. Michael had delicate health, so he made very few public appearances. After his son's died, he died of a stroke.

The great was against Napoleon, 1812.

Napoleon invaded Russia with his Grand Army of about 600,000 men. Arrogant and sure of victory, Napoleon confidently drove for Moscow. Russia came united to fight against Napoleon. The one-eyed general Kutuzov was the commander and chief. The Russians retreated, burning as they went. They would continue this because they knew that once winter came, Napoleon's army would parish. When Napoleon seized Moscow, the Russians set the city on fire. The French began to retreat, and as the winter came, they started dying out.

Genghis Khan

Near the Gobi Desert lived a strong and prolific Asiatic people, the Mongols. In the middle of the 12th century, one of the world's most terrifying warriors rose to become their leader. His name was Temuchin, but he is better known in history as Genghis Khan, which means "limitless strength." In 1211 with about 100,000 fearless and pitiless horsemen, Genghis broke through the Great Wall of China and conquered a million people.

What was Catherine's relationship with Orlov?

Orlov was a lowborn officer. Orlov was handsome and dashing, a simple man full of physical strength and courage, who was dazzled by the rank of his new mistress. By the time Elizabeth died, Catherine was pregnant by Orlov. Because of her affair with Orlov, she developed a powerful relationship with the Guards. Catherine and Orlov had 3 children together, but she did not decide to marry him.

How was Novgorod governed?

Novgorod had principles of self-government, including a veche or town assembly which any free man could attend and it was convened by ringing a special bell. Novgorod was ruled by a son of the Kieven Grand Prince and the veche, but then in 1136 the Novgorodians simply rejected princely rule altogether and, calling themselves "Lord Novgorod the Great" decided to govern themselves. If Novgorod decided that it needed military assistance it would simply hire a prince and placed tight restrictions on him.

How did Kiev and Novgorod compare to other western European cities of the period?

Nowhere in Western Europe at that time did there exist such a splendidly vivid cathedral. Russian and Greek artist decorated the interior of the church with mosaics of gold and many colors. Under Yaroslav, Kiev became a cosmopolitan artistic center where artists and craftsmen from southern, eastern, and western cultures came to work and exchange ideas. Novgorod was the heart of a huge trading empire. Both Kiev and Novgorod possessed almost a century before many European cities roadways made of oak laid across oak foundations and intricate systems made for running off melted snow.

Icon arrangement on the iconostasis

On the iconostasis, icons are arranged in a special order. The first icons are the icons of Christ, the Archangel, and the Apostles. Then there are icons of Christ between the Virgin and John the Baptist, then saints of the months and feast days. The panels may be moved and changed, thus revealing the mystical events which are symbolically taking place unseen behind the screen in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Symbolism of domes on Russian churches

One dome symbolized God as the head of the church. Three domes symbolized the Trinity representing the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Smaller domes surrounding the main one signified Christ and His apostles. The domes were rounded in the earliest Russian churches, but they then took on their onion shape. A symbolic explanation of this shape is so that the domes may better catch the prayers of the faithful and send them to heaven.

Princess Dashkova's contribution to learning.

One of the people who criticized Catherine was the princess Dashkova, she had been one of her closest friends. At a time when French was being encouraged as the language of the court, she founded a Russian Academy whose main goals was the perfection of the Russian language. She also established a department of translation because she felt that all of Russia should have the opportunity to read foreign books.

What role did the Orthodox Church play during the Mongol period?

So ruthlessly had the Mongols dismembered Russia that the nation had almost lost its sense of identity. Only one force still kept the flame of national consciousness alive, and that flame was the Orthodox Church. Despite everything, the Christianity of Kiev survived and remained a living memory in the hearts of the people. The church withstood invasion and re-emerged stronger than before, solidifying the identity of the Russian people.

How was St. Petersburg different from other Russian cities?

St. Petersburg was given a Dutch name, as opposed to a Russian name. In St. Petersburg he created the first learned academies of Russia, and the first libraries. There were education institutions that were staffed with teachers from the West. It was in every sense, a European city.

Rastrelli; what three famous buildings did he design?

Stroganov Palace, Anichkov Palace, Smolny Cathedral. Elizabeth planned to retire in a covenant attached to the Smolny Cathedral.

How did the Mongols Govern Russia?

The Mongols governed by granting warrents to Russian princes, and acting under this power, the princes collected tribute. The Mongols kept a permanent mission at the court of the princes. When the Great Khan made on of his visits to Moscow, he demanded that the prince approach him on foot, with his cap in hand filled with otas, from which the Mongol's horse would feed. The Moscow princes made regular trips to the Golden Horde, bringing their tribute and prostrating themselves in the prescribed manner, such as beating their head to the ground five times before the Great Khan.

What is the Church of the Assumption? Church of the Annunciation?

The Church of the Assumption was to be the new coronation church for the rulers of Muscovy. The church remained the model for other important Russian churches in later times. The iconostasis was a glowing wall, a fabulous display of the finest icons of Russian and Byzantium. The Church of the Assumption was only a few yards away from the Uspensky Cathedral. The Church of the Annunciation had white walls with five gold cupolas. It was a small and intimate Church which became the favorite chapel of the wives and sisters of the Muscovite rulers.

What was the role of the church in daily Muscovite life?

The church affected nearly every phase of Muscovite life. Every trade and occupation had its own patron saint. The years were counted by the church calendar, which dated from the creation of the world and thus began in September. It was believed that every fifth house was a chapel. Icons were in great demand. Everybody wanted an icon of the Virgin in their home. There were even long fasts which were observed by everyone, from the tsar down to the simplest peasant.

What may have been the cause of Ivan the Terrible's cruelty later in his life?

The death of his wife Anastasia. It is uncertain as to how she died, but she suffered from an unexplained illness for about six months before her death. It is often believed that she died of poison. Anastasia was one of the few people that Ivan trusted. After her death, he changed greatly and sank into a life of dissipation and drinking.

How long did the Kievan state last?

The greatness and promise of Kiev lasted two hundred years, and then came to a sudden violent end.

Nikon?

The newly appointed Patriarch Nikon, was an energetic man whose ambition it was to have the Russian church recognized as the one true Orthodox faith among the Eastern rites, precipitated a crisis. Nikon sought to reform the Russian service, to remove the deviations from the ancient Byzantine Greek service which had crept in over the centuries. He even made corrections to the prayer book. Nikon also prohibited the building of churches with more than five cupolas.

On what bases was Moscow divided into quarters?

The nobility lived in one quarter, the merchants in another; the armorers, falconers, musketeers and bellringsers each had their own quarters, as did foreigners of the Tatars. Workers in their trades all worked and lived in their own areas. Because of this there were special markets all throughout the city.

How did the Kievan state come to an end?

The nomadic Polovtsy tribes were fleeing from Genghis Khan and sought the aid of their old enemies in Kiev. An alliance was formed and seven Russian princes and their armies faced the Mongols. The Mongols appeared to be in retreat when suddenly the Polovtsy fled in terror, leaving the Russians to be destroyed.

Iconostasis

The symbolic spatial frontier between earthly and heavenly existence is a screen, completely decorated with icons. This screen is called the iconostasis. The central door is called the "Royal Door" and it is opened and closed during the service to signify many things, such as the creation of the world. The iconostasis is extremely important and is usually very ornately decorated. On the iconostasis are icons which are arranged in a special order.

Terem

The word terem comes from a word for a Russian house, but also describes the custom of keeping women, especially highborn women, in seclusion. This was not a Slavic cultural tradition, but a Byzantium one. The women of the Kremlin palaces were never admitted to the company of men except for their close male relatives, the clergy, and privileged courtiers. They lived their lives in seclusion in special quarters. These female quarters were called the terem.

What differentiates Russia's classic style from similar styles in Europe?

There was a lot of focus on wood, and wooden palaces. The Russian classical style was very bright and vibrant, much like Elizabeth, while the European style was much more reserved and had duller colors.

German Suburb.

Throughout the 17th century, more and more foreigners were arriving to Russia. These foreigners brought with them their habits and ideas. The Orthodox church fathers grew alarmed at the growth of heretical influences, so they persuaded Alexis to expand the foreign quarter to be much larger. Foreigners were each given a plot of land according to their profession and trade. These areas were called the German suburbs, because all foreigners at this time were called German.

Who were Minin and Pozharsky?

With the land in chaos during "The Time of Troubles," two popular heroes arose. One was Prince Dmitry Pozharsky, and the other a wholesale meat dealer named Kuzma Minin.

What was it like for women in the Kremlin?

Women lived like birds in a gilded cage. They had many beautiful things such as carpets, sarafans, and kokoshniki. The tsarina and her boyarinas were forbidden to show themselves in public. They spent long days attending endless religious services or stitching fine embroidery. The seclusion of the tarem was broken only at great banquets when a nobleman or a very distinguished guest was present.

What did Yaroslav the Wise contribute to Russian Culture?

Yaroslav was sixth of Vladimir's twelve sons. Under him, the kingdom lived in peace and reached its highest state of splendor. He founded many churches, schools, hospitals, and numerous public baths. He also constructed the Golden Gates of Kiev which he hoped would rival Constantinople. He also determined to build for Kiev its own Cathedral of Hagia Sophia.

What role did Zoe play in Russian culture?

Zoe had a great influence on the arts at the court. With her she brought from Rome and Constantinople a large retinue of priests, priceless manuscripts, icons, and art. Zoe also urged Ivan to embark on a vast building program of new and magnificent churches in the Kremlin. At that time the Italians were the most famous builders of the day. Ivan sent a mission to Italy to recruit the best architectural talent to be found. The architects were put in charge of the Kremlin reconstruction.