Toward an Understanding of Russia

This publication was intended to help understand Russia better by bringing together the perspectives of American analysts with those of scholars who were much closer to Russia due to geography and history. Therefore, was invited 12 analysts from Central and Eastern Europe to share their views on issues ranging from Russia’s structure of power and President Vladimir Putin’s foreign policy goals to Russia’s energy policy. This book makes opportunity to learn from the differences between these perspectives.

The Encyclopedia of Russian History is designed to help dispel the mystery of Russia. It is the first encyclopedia in the English language to comprehend the entirety of Russian history, from ancient Rus to the most recent events in post-Soviet Russia. It is not aimed primarily at specialists in the area but at general readers, students, and scholars who are curious about Russia, have historical events, dates, and persons they wish to explore or papers to write on the widely varying topics and individuals contained herein. Contributors include top scholars in history, Russian studies, military history, economics, social science, literature, philosophy, music, and art history. [This edition is available now on ENGLISHTIPS server. It was initially posted among many other books in my review article "Practice Makes Perfect (015)" of 2006 June 16; vol 4 was added owing to  Dillz )

Catherine the Great of Russia
In Moscow's Tretyakov Gallery hangs perhaps the most well-known picture of Russia's most well-known ruler. Dimitri Levitsky's 1780 'Portrait of Catherine the Great in the Justice Temple' depicts Catherine in the temple burning poppies at an altar, symbolising her sacrifice of self-interest for Russia. Law books and the scales of justice are at her feet, highlighting her respectful promotion of the rule of law. But menacingly, in the background an eagle crouches, suggesting the means to use brutal power where necessary. This was one of many images that Catherine commissioned that demonstrated her skill at manipulation and reinvention.
For an obscure, small town, German princess her ambition was large - the transformation of a semi-barbaric country into a model of the ideals of the French 18th century Enlightenment. How far was Catherine able to lead her country into full participation in the political and cultural life of Europe? Was she able to liberate the serfs? And should she be remembered as Russia's most civilised ruler or a megalomaniacal despot?