Czech-Russian cultural ties during the transformation of mutual interest in the second half of the 19th century

This article examines Czech-Russian cultural ties in the second half of the 19th century within the context of shifting mutual interests and the strengthening of Czech national identity. Special attention is given to the motivations behind scientific and cultural cooperation from both the Russian and Czech perspectives. The study aims to identify patterns of cultural and academic exchange between the two nations, as well as to trace the evolution of Czech perceptions of Russian culture and the attitudes of Russian intellectuals toward Czech contacts amid political and social changes. The analysis reveals the reasons behind the parties' abandonment of a romanticized and idealized view of mutual dialogue in favor of more rigorous academic collaboration. Additionally, the article highlights the achievements resulting from the interactions between Czech and Russian cultural figures during this period. The research is based on a comparative analysis of historical sources, scholarly works, and publications related to Czech-Russian relations from the given era. A qualitative approach was employed in studying archival materials, including correspondence between cultural figures, as well as content analysis of periodicals reflecting the dynamics of cultural interaction. For the first time, this study meticulously traces the transformation of Czech-Russian interaction—from a romanticized perception of Slavic reciprocity to pragmatic cooperation emphasizing the autonomous development of cultures. New aspects of the influence of Russian reforms in the 1860s–1870s on the growing interest in Czech culture are revealed. The analysis highlights both the distinctions between Czech and Russian cultures and the areas of mutual interest where cultural figures achieved significant results. Many Russian cultural and public figures, leveraging their extensive networks and high standing in Czech society, actively contributed to preserving, strengthening, and developing ties between the Czech and Russian intellectual communities. It is also noted that Czech migrants living in Russia made substantial contributions to the development of economics, science, and culture. Meanwhile, Russian figures, drawing on their broad connections and authority in Czech society, played a key role in promoting knowledge of Slavic history—and Russian history in particular—within Czech intellectual circles.

Czech-Russian relations, Cultural exchange, National identity, Mutual interest, Slavic reciprocity, Political reforms, National revival, Russian culture, Czech autonomy, Slavic studies