Russian Peasant Bride Theft

The book explores the history of Russian peasant bride theft, arguing that it was practised by Old Believers and schismatics to absolve the bride and her parents of the responsibility for engaging in a formal Orthodox ritual. It also provides details of particular bride theft cases, Russian peasant life, and folklore.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate and captivating history of Russian peasant bride theft, also known as abduction or capture. Spanning from the late tenth century when Christianity was adopted in Kievan Rus to the early twentieth century, it explores the various practices and motivations behind this phenomenon. The author argues that bride theft was not limited to a particular group or time period but was rather a widespread tradition in eighteenth and nineteenth-century Russia. It was particularly prevalent among the Old Believers, a schismatic group who rejected the Church reforms of the mid-seventeenth century and maintained a distance from the Orthodox Church. The book further suggests that bride theft served the purpose of absolving the bride and her parents of the responsibility for engaging in formal Orthodox rituals, which the Old Believers considered sinful.

Moreover, the book delves into the historical roots of bride theft in Russia, tracing it back to earlier periods and highlighting its continued presence in certain regions. It explores how bride theft fit into the Russian peasant economy and the social and cultural dynamics of the time. Throughout the book, the author provides detailed accounts of specific bride theft cases, offering a vivid portrayal of Russian peasant life and folklore, particularly bridal laments. These laments, sung by women on their wedding nights, were a way to express their sorrow and longing for their lost loved ones.

In conclusion, this book offers a rich and detailed exploration of the history of Russian peasant bride theft, shedding light on the complex interplay of religion, culture, and social norms. It provides valuable insights into the lives of Russian peasants and their traditions, and contributes to our understanding of the broader historical context of Russia during the nineteenth century.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 160 x 243 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367676254