In this chapter you will read about Peter the Great. What do you know about his role in Russian history? Specifically, consider the following questions:
Why is Peter the Great such a controversial and important figure in Russian history?
What are Peter the Great’s most important achievements as a ruler of Russia?
Read Tiutchev’s poem «Умом Россию не понять» or Blok’s poem «Да, скифы — мы» and consider how these texts are related to the interpretation of the rule of Peter the Great.