Summary

This memoir asserts Catherine the Great's perspective on her life, ascension to the Russian throne, and her reign as a period of enlightened absolutism and Russian expansion. It presents her justifications for her actions, framing them as necessary for strengthening Russia's power and prestige, and for advancing its cultural and political development. The narrative emphasizes her intellectual curiosity, her engagement with Enlightenment thinkers, and her determination to modernize Russia, all while depicting the challenges and intrigues of court life and the coup that brought her to power.

Readers gain insight into Catherine's personal motivations, her diplomatic strategies, and her vision for Russia. The text highlights her commitment to legal reform, education, and the arts, alongside her military successes and territorial acquisitions. The memoir aims to solidify her image as a capable and enlightened ruler, a patron of the arts and sciences, and a shrewd politician who successfully navigated the complexities of autocratic rule and international relations.

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Key concepts

Enlightenment Absolutism — A form of absolute monarchy where the ruler embraces Enlightenment ideals and uses their power to enact reforms for the betterment of society.
Nakaz — A legislative instruction issued by Catherine the Great, outlining principles for legal reform inspired by Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu and Beccaria.
Partitions of Poland — A series of agreements by Russia, Prussia, and Austria to divide Polish territory, significantly expanding Russia's western borders during Catherine's reign.
Hermitage Museum — Founded by Catherine the Great, originally as a private art collection, it grew into one of the world's largest and most renowned museums.