This page was created by Cara Jacobson.  The last update was by Kelly O'Neill.

Imperiia: a spatial history of the Russian Empire

Herzen's Final Entry

As I left the small museum, I was engulfed by the various ancient frescoes and carved images within the interior of the Cathedral of Dormition.  I was granted permission to climb the cathedral’s tower which allows for the most magnificent views of the city and its surrounding country.  I am currently writing here.  I am enjoying the distinction between the traditional white-stoned edifices and the more contemporary, European buildings of today.  I can see the interesting squared shape of the Cathedral of St. Dmitri with its singular golden dome, constructed shortly after the Cathedral of Dormition.  I also see the Walls and Cathedral of the Monastery of the Nativity, which are in ruin and will hopefully be renovated soon. 

As I take in the sublime views of this ancient city, I reflect on Vladimir’s long history.  I think about changes that have occurred in Vladimir as well as within Russia.  How far we have come since our domination by the Mongols! Yet, we have much more to improve in terms of "the oppression of the individual and the humiliation and degradation of men by political and personal tyranny" (Herzen, xviii).  We must celebrate our grand history by committing ourselves to social progress.  As in the ancient story of Moscow and Vladimir, power shifts. It is time for power to rightfully be given to the populace.

I am afraid I must cut today’s tour short.  Several of my family members are returning to Vladimir today to celebrate my return home, including my precious Natalie.  Извините, но мне пора идти. До свидания!
 
 
- AH
 

 
 

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