ABOUT THIS COURSE
When Peter became czar in 1682, Europe was foreign to Russia, an insular and tradition-bound nation. The West fascinated Peter, and he was determined to transform Russia into a great European power. Discover the traditional Russia of Peter’s childhood, his Grand Tour of Europe and his subsequent dream of building St. Petersburg, a new city to match his vision of the country. With images of the city and accounts of his cruel drive to create it, we’ll see how the city emerged as a symbol of his power and of Russia’s hopes.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Explore the rise of Russia as a world power in the 18th century.
- Understand the impact of Peter the Great on Russia’s past and present.
- Follow the founding of St. Petersburg as the capital of Imperial Russia.
- Examine the role of St. Petersburg in Russia’s relationship with the West.
- Appreciate its influence on Russian culture and society.