The Russian Primary Chronicle
Lex translation of the Povest' Vremennykh Let (Tale of Bygone Years), composed in Old East Slavic in the early twelfth century. Informed by public-domain scholarly editions and resources.
Editions
Ebooks
The Russian Primary ChronicleCurrent
450 pages
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VladimirProtagonist
Vladimir is the Grand Prince of Rus' who converts to Christianity and plays a pivotal role in the Christianization of his people.
OlgaSupporting
Olga is the widow of Igor and the grandmother of Vladimir, known for her vengeance against the Derevlians and her eventual conversion to Christianity.
SvyatopolkAntagonist
The ambitious prince of Kiev who seeks to consolidate power and eliminate rivals, often through treachery.
BorisSupporting
Boris is the noble son of Vladimir, known for his piety and tragic death at the hands of Svyatopolk.
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About The Russian Primary Chronicle
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- This chapter recounts the origins of the Rus' and the early rulers, establishing the historical context for the narrative.
- 2
- Oleg sends envoys to the Greek emperors, establishing diplomatic relations and showcasing the growing power of Rus'.
- 3
- Olga seeks vengeance against the Derevlians for her husband's death, demonstrating her strength and resolve.
Key Themes
- Faith and Conversion
- The text explores the transformative power of faith, particularly through Vladimir's conversion to Christianity and its impact on the Rus' people.
- Betrayal and Ambition
- The narrative highlights the destructive consequences of betrayal, particularly through Svyatopolk's treachery against his brothers.
- Legacy and Memory
- The text reflects on how the actions of the princes will be remembered, emphasizing the importance of legacy in shaping historical narratives.
Characters
- Vladimir(protagonist)
- Vladimir is the Grand Prince of Rus' who converts to Christianity and plays a pivotal role in the Christianization of his people.
- Olga(supporting)
- Olga is the widow of Igor and the grandmother of Vladimir, known for her vengeance against the Derevlians and her eventual conversion to Christianity.
- Svyatopolk(antagonist)
- The ambitious prince of Kiev who seeks to consolidate power and eliminate rivals, often through treachery.
- Boris(supporting)
- Boris is the noble son of Vladimir, known for his piety and tragic death at the hands of Svyatopolk.
- Gleb(supporting)
- Gleb is the brother of Boris, who also meets a tragic fate due to Svyatopolk's treachery.
- Theodosius(supporting)
- Theodosius is the prior of the Crypt Monastery, known for his piety and leadership in the early Christian community in Rus'.
