Reflection of the Mongol imperial ideas in medieval Russian sources

Abstract

The purpose of the research: This research builds upon the author’s previous work focused on exploring the reflection of Mongolian imperial ideology in sources from various countries that were influenced to varying degrees by the Mongolian expansion during the 13th and 14th centuries. The objective is to search for and systematically categorize the manifestations of Mongol ”world-organizing” ideas within Russian sources. Research materials: The primary sources for this study were the oldest Russian chronicles, including the Laurentian, First Novgorod, and Hypatian chroniclew, along with several others. Valuable information was also extracted from collections of yarlyqs (edicts) from Mongol khans to Russian metropolitans, hagiographic literature, and religious records. Comparative materials from Eastern and European sources were utilized to elucidate the identified elements of Mongolian ideology. The works of both Russian and foreign historians, specializing in Russian and Mongolian history, were extensively referenced. The results of the research and scientific novelty: This research reaffirms conclusions made by other experts regarding the limited interest among Russian scribes in the material and spiritual culture of the Mongols. Ideological aspects of Mongolian power are scarcely documented in Russian sources, although in some instances, they can be reasonably reconstructed. The foundations of Mongolian ”universalism,” such as the concept of Eternal Heaven, the deification of Genghis Khan, and the Great Yasa attributed to him, have left traces in chronicles and other historical sources. Russian sources also provide supplementary information highlighting Mongolian “imperialism,” including the Mongol Empire’s system of titles, interactions between the Ulus of Jochi and Karakorum, and the steppe rituals that princes were compelled to perform within the Horde. Overall, Russian materials do not support the notion that the Mongols aimed to conquer ”the whole world.”