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Hoping for a revolution Emperor Paul I, his heirs, and representation of power in I. Krylov's mock tragedy Podshchipa
https://doi.org/10.31425/0042-8795-2020-5-196-211
Abstract
The question of whether Grand Duke Alexander Pavlovich was aware of or involved in the conspiracy against his father remains today as highly polemic as it was in the 19th c. The author claims that research into the reputational culture of the imperial court could change the status quo. The mock tragedy Podshchipa [or Trumf], penned by a young Ivan Krylov for the family of his benefactors, who had been banished from the capital by the Emperor, is a curious reflection on the real social capital of Paul I's heirs - Alexander and his spouse Elisabeth - and is devoted to the overthrow of the antihero Trumf, traditionally believed to represent Paul himself.
A comparison between Krylov's characters and contemporary narratives like personal letters, diaries, and political pamphlets reveals an insider view of an impending political crisis, as witnessed by a Russian person in 1800.
About the Author
A. P. KovalyovaRussian Federation
Alina P. Kovalyova - Master of History, independent researcher
10 Bolshoy Gnezdnikovsky Ln., Moscow, 125009
References
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Review
For citations:
Kovalyova A.P. Hoping for a revolution Emperor Paul I, his heirs, and representation of power in I. Krylov's mock tragedy Podshchipa. Voprosy literatury. 2020;(5):196-211. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.31425/0042-8795-2020-5-196-211
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