Российская художественная интеллигенция и думская практика 1906—1907 годов
Russian Art Intelligentsia and Duma Practice of 1906—1907

Summary/Abstract: The changed political reality — the establishment of the State Duma in Russia in 1906 — made active a public discussion about a ratio of guarding and liberal elements in business of the state arrangement. The idea of naturalness and «the rule of law» of the autocratic power found unexpected refraction in consciousness of the art elite trying to comprehend the value and functions of new political institute, to understand a measure of its historical correctness. Based on the principles of historicism and system, applying tools of historical-genetic and historical-comparative methods, the author reveals evolution of perception by artists and literature of realities of the Duma practice of 1906—1907. Interest in new state institute in many respects was defined by hopes for civil consent, political and cultural and moral improvement of the Russian life. One of the main functions of the Duma seemed to artists in peacemaking and search of conciliatory line between various political forces and opinions, at unconditional respect for traditions of the Russian statehood, religion, culture. Without denying importance and political importance of new institute, figures of the Russian culture noted such evident qualities of the Duma practice as tendency to a phrase mongering and “theatrical” effects, inability to offer a part of political ambitions for the sake of nation-wide need, the aspiration to approve a policy priority over culture, claims for spiritual one-man management. Moderate conservatives (Octobrists) who could undertake search of balance of interests were slow and shy. The increasing public skepticism concerning opportunities of the State Duma to become the instrument of national reconciliation and consent became a result of the Duma impressions of 1906—1907.

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