Peter the Great in the historiosophy of Vasily Rozanov

Abstract

The article is in the problematic field of the historiosophy of Russian culture. In understanding the essence of historiosophy, the author of the article focuses on the deontology by Nikolai Kareev and the “passionarity” theory of Lev Gumilyov. In addition, the works of contemporary researchers of Russian historiosophy are involved. The texts of Vasily Rozanov, associated with his understanding of the personality of Peter the Great, the first Emperor’s place and role in Russian history. In choosing Vasily Rozanov’s texts, the author of the article uses a chronological method, a way to present V. Rozanov’s historiosophical views in development. In addition, the historical and cultural method is used to explain the essence of the meanings of historical phenomena, sometimes their inconsistency. The article notes that for the first time Vasily Rozanov turns to the personality of Peter the Great in his philosophical treatise “On Understanding”, where he points to the originality of Peter I and inscribes him in world history. It turns out that in the articles of the 1890s, Vasily Rozanov discovers in Peter I a person who brings suffering to the country and at the same time sincerely loves it. In a special article about Peter I and later in “Fallen Leaves”, Vasily Rozanov reveals the most significant ideals realised by the Emperor. In his final work, Vasily Rozanov emphasises the need for Peter I and, at the same time, the tragic consequences of his reforms for the country. As a result, the author of the article comes to the conclusion that Peter the Great is the alpha and the omega of Vasily Rozanov’s historiosophical views.