Muscovy and the Mongols: Cross-Cultural Influences on the Steppe Frontier, 1304-1589 - Softcover

Ostrowski, Donald

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521894107 ISBN 13: 9780521894104

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2010

Synopsis

The importance of the Mongols' impact on the Rus lands has been recognised by many scholars, but its precise nature and extent is very contentious. While diverse opinions exist on the origins and development of Muscovy, the author argues that no society arises ex nihilo and that Muscovy is no exception. In this 1998 book, Donald Ostrowski considers the outside origins and influences, as well as indigenous origins and development, in order that the reader may gain a clearer understanding of Muscovy as a political entity, its political institutions and political culture. He shows that during the early period of Muscovy (1304–1448) the ecclesiastical and secular institutions were affected by two different outside influences, Byzantium and the Qipchaq Khanate, respectively. In considering these outside influences, he has set out to study Muscovy as an integral and important part of world history.

About this title

Review:

'... an invaluable book ... It raises the level of debate, and it brings together into a coherent argument a vast amount of disparate scholarship in many disciplines to illumine a difficult area in history ... Future writing on this topic will have to engage with Ostrowski's analysis one way or another.' Reviews in History

'This is a book which makes a significant contribution, and its arguments are well worth pondering.' English Historical Review

' ... a solid, thoroughly researched work on a major and often contentious topic. It is an important addition not just to Russian-Mongol imperial history, but to Eurasian and comparative studies as well.' Journal of Ecclesiastical History

Book Description:

In examining the Mongol influence on Muscovy, Donald Ostrowski places Muscovy in the context of world history. In this 1998 book, he discusses the different cultures which influenced its development and shows that the ecclesiastical and secular establishments were affected by two dominant influences: Byzantium and the Qipchaq Khanate.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 0521894107
• ISBN 13: 9780521894104
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 346