The Conception of “Small Deeds” in Early Russia

(On One of the Peculiar Features of Moral Consciousness of the Russian Middle Age)

Abstract

The paper attempts an analysis of moral and ethical programme elaborated by Vladimir Monomach in his “Instruction” (first quarter of the 12th cent.). It explores the religious and philosophical foundations of the teaching exposed in the earliest piece of normative morals in the history of the Russian medieval letters and shows that the most striking feature of this work is the author’s denial to adhere to the moral maxima typical of his age and his selective adoption of the precepts of the Christian Commandments. In the time of change from paganism to Christianity, Monomach prescribes the observance of just a few fairly undemanding regulations. The minimal requirements that suffice for the salvation of the soul include abhorrence of evil, compassion, repentant prayer, care for the weak. Greatest importance is assigned to charity which is declared the chief virtue, easily attainable for those in power. Moral standards thus understated reflect the thinker’s awareness of the real state of affairs in a society involved in transition. Monomach’s programme is a great example of humanity and moral wisdom. It is from this standpoint that he sets moral criteria for people in politics, which has never been the case ever since in the history of Russian ethical thought. Vladimir Monomach’s conception can be regarded as a model of early Russian practical moral philosophy.