Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman

CATHERINE THE GREAT: PORTRAIT OF A WOMAN

By Robert K. Massie

Call Number: BIOG CATHERINE

Empress Catherine II of Russia was an enigma of her time. Although born Sophia of Anhalt-Zerbst, a minor German Princess of little importance to the massive empire of Empress Elizabeth, she rose through rebellion to become the most beloved ruler of Russia since Peter the Great. Massie brilliantly recounts the many trials, tribulations, and heartaches that eventually produce Catherine the Great. We are quickly drawn into the often sad and equally harsh life of Catherine, whose “good fortune” at being betrothed to the future ruler of Russia, was overshadowed by the failures of her marriage (most importantly, the inability to produce an heir) and the almost constant displeasure of Empress Elizabeth. However, Catherine is able to rise above these obstacles to grab the throne from her husband just months after he is pronounced Czar. The major strength of this work is Massie’s ability to focus on the humanity and complexity of the Russian court. No person is one dimensional, not even Catherine’s childish and inept husband Peter. Catherine’s inability to live up to her enlightenment ideals (specifically, her inability to end serfdom) is also not spared the author’s critical scrutiny. Despite its length, Massie has written a superb biographical work that is almost impossible to put down. Catherine the Great is highly recommended for anyone that enjoys historical nonfiction and biography.