In Rebels in the Name of the Tsar (originally published in 1989), Daniel Field explores one of the most puzzling phenomena of late imperial Russia: the devotion of the common people to the person of the Tsar. His comprehensive and engaging study addresses the question of “naïve monarchism” from the various standpoints of the government, the radicals, and the peasants themselves.
In the introductory chapter, Field reviews the “myth of the tsar” and how it has changed over time. He then moves on to detailed case studies of two important peasant uprisings: Bezdna (1861) and Chigirin (1877). Through analysis of well-chosen documents (translated for the first time) and intelligent, balanced commentary, Field offers the most complete interpretation yet of these important events. In the final chapter, he reexamines our preconceptions about peasants and draws innovative conclusions about the nature of their lives and thoughts. Rebels in the Name of the Tsar is essential reading for students and teachers of Russian history and peasant sociology, and for the interested layperson.
Table of Contents:
Foreword by Ben A. Eklof Preface 1. The Myth of the Tsar 2. Bezdna 3. The Chigirin Affair 4. The Myth of the Peasant
About the Author :
Daniel Field (1938–2006) was Emeritus Professor of history at Syracuse University, USA. He was the author of two extremely important books and a number of major articles on Russian peasants.
Review :
Reviews of the first publication:
‘Rebels in the Name of the Tsar us a fine piece of historical enquiry: subtle in conception, painstakingly executed, elegantly written…Field’s book is an intellectual treat.’
— Abbot Gleason, Brown University
‘Teachers of Russian history can be grateful to Professor Field for writing this book …’
— Edward C. Thaden Edward C. Thaden, Slavic Review
‘[this book] …deserves wide circulation among students of peasant behavior.’
— Geoffrey Hosking, Times Literary Supplement
