Synopses & Reviews
As capital of the Russian empire from the early eighteenth century until the fall of the Romanov dynasty in 1917, St Petersburg has often been seen as Russia's 'window onto Europe'. From its origins as an isolated military settlement at its foundation, St Petersburg grew rapidly to become a major European capital under Catherine the Great. This book examines the city's development in the crucial period before Catherine's accession and its development as a suitable seat for the Russian imperial court. The court played a leading role in fostering the various cultural changes that were introduced in Russia during the eighteenth century. In exploring the ceremonial and social life of St Petersburg during this period, the foundation for the glittering courts of the later Romanov rulers, the book highlights another important aspect of the relationship between Russia and Europe.
Review
To come
Synopsis
This book focuses on the city of St Petersburg, the capital of the Russian empire from the early eighteenth century until the fall of the Romanov dynasty in 1917. It uses the Russian court as a prism through which to view the various cultural changes that were introduced in the city during the eighteenth century.
About the Author
Paul Keenan is a Lecturer in the Department of International History at the London School of Economics, UK, where he has taught since 2004. His research examines the social and cultural development of Russia during the eighteenth century, with particular focus on the activities of the Russian court.
Table of Contents
List of Maps
Acknowledgements
Abbreviations
Introduction
1. Location: Situating the City
2. Regulation: Policing the City's Inhabitants
3. Organisation: The Court and its Celebrations
4. Interaction: The City's Social Life
5. Instruction: Fashioning an Audience
Conclusion
Bibliography
Key to Maps