The Transfigured Kingdom: Sacred Parody and Charismatic Authority at the Court of Peter the Great

Rating:
Summary: Fascinating, innovative new study of Peter's reign
Review: This innovative study looks at the transformation of political discourse during the reign of Peter the Great, specifically focusing on "sacred parody and charismatic authority" at the royal court. Peter's various rituals, parodies and mock councils all served to create a "countercultural play-world" that distinguished those believed in Peter's grace - and by this Zitser means charisma, in the religious sense - from those who were suspicious or hostile toward Peter's style of rule and reform. The link between Peter's parodies and rituals and the emergence of a new conception of royal authority is best demonstrated by the fact that many of the top political figures were also ranking members of the All-Drunken Council. When they participated in Peter's sacred parodies they were expressing their faith in his grace, and Peter needed a trusted group of followers to sustain and spread the message of his personal charisma, thereby helping him to carry out his program of reforms.

This book is a fascinating new look at Peter's reign.