Vladimir Volkoff (1932–2005)

This is a biography/history of the Christianizer of Rus' who lived in the 10th century. The author uses as many sources as he can and tries to reconcile the dates, differences, and gaps that these ancient manuscripts present. He uses not only Russian annals, but also Byzantine, Arabic ones, as well as Scandinavian sagas. When there are conflicting versions of events, he tries to present the history based on what is most likely, but doesn't NOT explain his reasoning. Overall, it is a fascinating look at a grand figure in Russian history and heroic tales.

Volkoff does stray from a purely academic study by imagining Vladimir's thoughts at various times and events which no one could possibly know, however this technique did tend to make the figure of the man seem more concrete and alive. He also spent a great deal of time proclaiming a religious justification (rather than political) for Vladimir's decision to Christianize the country which became somewhat preachy.

At the same time that I was reading this book, I was reading the first volume of Boris Akunin's "History of the Russian State" [Istoriia rossiiskogo gosudarstva] which is a wonderful introduction to the beginnings of the Russian state up until the Mongol invasion (13th century). Akunin, like Volkoff, did much research into primary sources and annals, and presents an epic overview of the origins, growth, as well as the important leaders of the early Russian state (Rus'). It was nice to read this as background for the more detailed study by Volkoff of one leader during this time. I've ordered the 2nd volume, but due to COVID-19, it may be awhile until my interlibrary order will come in.… (more)