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

A 1998 study of the impact of the Mongols on the Rus lands using a broad and extensive source base.

Donald Ostrowski (Author)

9780521590853, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 23 April 1998

346 pages, 6 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.4 cm, 0.68 kg

' … 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

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.

Preface
Introduction: understanding Muscovy
Part I. Mongol Influence: What's What and What's Not: 1. Setting the scene
2. Administration, political institutions and the military
3. Seclusion of women
4. Oriental despotism
5. Economic oppression
Part II. Development of an Anti-Tatar Ideology in the Muscovite Church: 6. Defining ideology
7. Anti-Tatar interpolations in the Rus' chronicles
8. Fashioning the Khan into a Basileus
9. Byzantine political thought and Muscovy
10. Third Rome - delimiting the ruler's power and authority
11. The myth of the 'Tatar Yoke'
Addendum: types of cross-cultural influence
Glossary
Chronology
Works cited
Abbreviations
Sources
Studies.

Subject Areas: Early history: c 500 to c 1450/1500 [HBLC], European history [HBJD]