Evaluation of the Reforms of Peter I: An Idealistic Approach

For the first time in historiography, the article assesses the reforms of Peter I from the standpoint of an idealistic approach to history. Peter's reforms in the assessments of historians are constantly changing depending on the theory they adhere to, which leads to the creation of new interpretations and images of the past. Evaluation of the Peter's reforms should be done from the standpoint of the criteria laid down in the Orthodox worldview that prevailed in the Petrine period. The vast majority of the reforms carried out from these worldview positions can be assessed, mostly positively. Unambiguously negatively evaluated: beard shaving, the introduction of foreign clothing and some forms of European life and customs. Synodal church administration and the monastic reforms are generally negatively assessed.

reforms of Peter I, idealistic approach to history, ideas of Peter I, outlook in history, idealistic methodology, Orthodox worldview