The Icon and the Axe: An Interpretive History of Russian Culture

A dense but richly rewarding cultural history of Russia. What is especially impressive is that in this book, which was published in 1966--25 years before the collapse of the Soviet Union - Billington makes a persuasive case that the Communists will eventually lose their grip and fall from power because of deep-seated internal historical and cultural forces that have characterized Russia's development from its earliest days. While this book will give you a whole new appreciation for the complexity and drama of Russian history - and for Russian literature, music, and art - Billington's insights extend well beyond Russia to the meaning of history itself. [Paul Jellinek, Goodreads]