The history of Rus Kiev. The teachings of Vladimir Monomakh

It is curious that the Grand Duke Vladimir Monomakh, without any doubt, is considered one of the most significant figures in the history of the Russian Middle Ages. In fact, it is his reign that concludes the era of Rus of Kiev. But in the Russian history Vladimir Monomakh entered not only as an outstanding statesman, but also as a thinker and writer. A symbolic monument of Old Russian literature is the so-called "Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh".

The year of writing it is still unclear. The fact is that different historians refer it to different dates. Some say that it was compiled by the Grand Duke at the end of his life, and others find reasons for dating in the text itself. For example, the historian Pogodin argues that the "Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh" was compiled by the prince on his way to Rostov. As for the mention of later events in the composition itself, this, from the point of view of the historian himself, is nothing but later inserts.

Another historian named Shlyakov dates "The Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh" in 1106 year. He even specifies the month and day: this is the Friday of the first week of Lent, which in 1106 fell on February 9. According to the historian, in 1117 the "Instruction" was re-edited by the prince himself.

The central idea of the memo

The meaning of the teachings of Vladimir Monomakh is to appeal to his own children and to all people who will hear this grammatical, strictly observe all the requirements of the feudal law and order, always guide them, forget about personal and "self-serving family interests." As a result, the instruction acquired not so much a family as a public shade. About this and talk.

The teachings of Vladimir Monomakh in brief

Features

A characteristic feature of this scripture can be called a very close relationship of didactics with elements of autobiography. It is curious that all the instructions of the Grand Duke are supported not only by quotations from the Bible, but also by various examples from the personal life of Monomakh.

Content

The most important tasks in the "Instruction" are state ones. After all, the sacred duty of the Grand Duke is to take care of the welfare of his own state, of its unity. In addition, the prince must comply with all treaties and vows.

Vladimir Monomakh believed that all internecine strife simply undermines the political and economic power of the entire state. The only thing that can lead to the prosperity of the country is peace! That is why the duty of any ruler is to preserve peace.

Another important duty of any prince, according to Monomakh, is the care and constant care for the improvement of the church. "The Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh" recommends any ruler who wants to consolidate his power, vigilantly and constantly show concern for "priestly and monastic ranks." At the same time, the prince does not advise his children to "save souls" in monasteries, that is, to be tonsured to monks, because this is alien to a life-loving and energetic person. Monomakh calls simply to observe religious rites in the form of repentance and the distribution of alms.