Interesting in form; the author is up-front about the fact that this book is not based on primary sources. This is a weakness, to be sure, but it is, at the same time, a strength, as it allows the author an opportunity to examine the work of previous historians, and make judgments as to whether one historian has a more plausible account of events than another. That being said, the writing is dry as dust, the author could not find a synonym for "appanage", which must occur more than 300 times in the text, and occasionally years of Ivan's reign are simply skipped over without explanation, though they are often returned to in passing when subjects related to the events which happened in them arise.
Not finding this maintains my interest but shall persevere till finished.Finished this late yesterday (Saturday). This really is a definite work on Russia and Ivan - so much so that I would be hesitant in recommending it for a novice to this particularly area of study. It is a very indepth coverage of the political, social and economic status of Russia before and during the reign of Ivan IV. At times, I found myself bogged down in detail when all I really wanted was to hear more about Ivan, his family and court.The author achieves her goal in providing the reader with a comprehensive study of the man and his times.
Do You like book Ivan The Terrible (2005)?
Laura wrote: "ENOUGH!!! Stop reading! Watch Amelie!"I will not attempt to watch it tonight. I need my sleep. But soon we will embark upon this reading adventure together, even if we are not quite reading the same book.
—Martina
