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 completes the era of Kievan Rus. But Vladimir Monomakh entered Russian history not only as an outstanding statesman, but also as a thinker and writer. The so-called "Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh" is considered a landmark monument of ancient Russian literature.
The year of its writing is still unclear. The fact is that different historians attribute it to different dates. Some say that it was compiled by the Grand Duke at the end of his life, while others find reasons for dating in the text itself. For example, the historian Pogodin claims that the "Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh" was compiled by the prince on the way to Rostov. As for the mention in the essay itselflater events, then this, from the point of view of the historian himself, is nothing but late inserts.
Another historian by the name of Shlyakov dates the "Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh" to 1106. He even specifies the month and day: it is the Friday of the first week of Great Lent, which in 1106 fell on February 9th. According to the historian, in 1117 the "Instruction" was re-edited by the prince himself.
Memo Central Idea
The meaning of Vladimir Monomakh's teaching is to call on his own children and all people who hear "this grammar" to strictly observe all the requirements of the feudal legal order, always be guided by them, forget about personal and "selfish family interests". As a result, the instruction acquired not so much a family connotation as a social connotation. Let's talk about that.
Teachings of Vladimir Monomakh in brief
Features
A characteristic feature of this writing 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 maxims from the Bible, but also by various examples from Monomakh's personal life.
Contents
The most important tasks in the "Instruction" are precisely the state ones. After all, the sacred duty of the Grand Duke is considered to be concern for the welfare of his own state, for its unity. In addition, the prince must abide by all contracts and oaths.
Vladimir Monomakh believed that all internecine strifesimply undermine the political and economic power of the entire state. The only thing that can lead to the prosperity of a country is peace! That is why it is the duty of any ruler to keep the peace.
Another important duty of any prince, according to Monomakh, is the care and constant concern for the improvement of the church. "Teachings of Vladimir Monomakh" recommends that any ruler who wants to consolidate his power, vigilantly and constantly take care of the "priestly and monastic ranks".
At the same time, the prince does not advise his children to "save souls" in monasteries, that is, to take the monastic vows, because this is alien to a cheerful and energetic person. Monomakh calls simply to observe religious rites in the form of repentance and distribution of alms.
