O
Orlando Figes
A people's tragedy
- Pages
- 960
- Published
- 1997
- Language
- English
Synopsis
This history offers an expansive yet intimate look at Russian society leading up to the revolution, detailing how social forces were violently suppressed. Through private writings, the book follows individuals like General Brusilov and Maxim Gorky, whose lives were irrevocably altered by the unfolding events. It presents the revolution as a tragedy for both the Russian people and the many individuals caught in its storm, arguing that the failure of democracy in 1917 was deeply rooted in Russian culture and history.
Genres
Frequently asked questions
What makes this history of the Russian Revolution unique?
Orlando Figes's approach integrates extensive archival research with personal diaries and letters, offering a ground-level perspective that highlights the human cost and individual experiences within the broader historical narrative. It emphasizes the cultural and historical roots of the revolution's trajectory, rather than solely focusing on political or economic factors.
Is this book considered a definitive account of the Russian Revolution?
It is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and influential single-volume histories of the Russian Revolution, often cited for its narrative scope and detailed examination of the period from the late Tsarist era through the Civil War. Its interpretations have significantly shaped contemporary understanding of the revolution's causes and consequences.
How does this book relate to other works by Orlando Figes?
This book established Figes as a leading historian of Russia, and its thematic focus on the human experience within grand historical events is a hallmark of his subsequent works, such as 'Natasha's Dance' and 'The Whisperers,' which also explore Russian culture and society through personal narratives.