Russia in the Age of Peter the Great by Lindsey Hughes

Russia in the Age of Peter the Great delves into the tumultuous and innovative era of Tsar Peter the Great, utilizing newly accessible historical sources to provide a comprehensive and illustrated thematic account. The book reexamines Peter's impact on Russia, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in the nation's modernization and reform. /n/n This scholarly work by a professor of Russian history at the University of London offers an in-depth look at the political, social, and cultural changes that occurred during Peter's reign. It challenges traditional narratives and provides a nuanced understanding of the tsar's complex legacy, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Reviews

Literary Review · Nikolai Tolstoy · 2000-04-01

monumental 4.50

The book is described as a monumental work that captures the essence of Peter the Great's era, portraying him as a figure of immense energy and moral vigour. The reviewer highlights the author's ability to convey the complexity of Peter's character and his impact on Russia.

Nikolai Tolstoy's review of this book emphasizes its monumental nature, capturing the spirit of Peter the Great's time in a way that is both engaging and informative. Tolstoy praises the author's portrayal of Peter as a man of immense energy and moral vigour, noting how the book effectively balances his achievements with his more controversial actions. The reviewer also appreciates the detailed historical context provided, which helps to illuminate Peter's motivations and the broader impact of his reign on Russia.

Quick quotes

Monster of superhuman energy and moral vigour.

Hughes recounts the events that shaped Peter's youth, provides an intimate character sketch, and explores his complex family relations.

This large volume is an ambitious attempt to examine the most momentous reign in modern Russian history.

Slavic Review · GL Freeze · 1999-01-01

ambitious 4.20

The reviewer commends the book for its ambitious scope and detailed examination of Peter the Great's reign, noting its comprehensive coverage of the period. The author's ability to weave together political, social, and cultural aspects is particularly praised.

GL Freeze's review in Slavic Review highlights the book's ambitious scope and detailed examination of Peter the Great's reign. Freeze appreciates how the author successfully integrates political, social, and cultural dimensions to provide a holistic view of the era. The reviewer also notes the book's comprehensive coverage, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers interested in Russian history. Freeze's overall assessment is positive, acknowledging the book's significant contributions to the understanding of Peter the Great and his impact on Russia.

Quick quotes

This large volume is an ambitious attempt to examine the most momentous reign in modern Russian history.

Its fourteen chapters begin with a background sketch of seventeenth-century Russia.

Hughes provides a book that is as readable for the pedestrian as it is informative for the scholar.

Goodreads · 1998-09-10

magisterial 4.00

The book is praised for its comprehensive examination of Peter the Great's impact on Russia, highlighting his dual role as both a visionary leader and a controversial figure. The detailed historical account is noted for its depth and insight.

This book is often celebrated for its thorough exploration of Peter the Great's reign and its profound influence on Russia. Readers appreciate the way it balances Peter's achievements with his more contentious actions, providing a nuanced portrait of a complex leader. The author's meticulous research and engaging narrative style make it a standout work in historical literature. It's clear that the book aims to offer a well-rounded view of Peter the Great, acknowledging his role in modernizing Russia while not shying away from his more brutal aspects.

Quick quotes

This magisterial book—a history of Peter and the Russia he governed—examines the impact of a man who was both acclaimed as the architect of the New Russia and reviled as an unscrupulous despot.

Hughes provides a book that is as readable for the pedestrian as it is informative for the scholar.

The greatest of the Romanovs was a barbarian, but a barbarian who believed in civilisation even if he himself rarely practised it.

Appears in Lists

The 100 Best Russian History Books