“The Main Subject for My Labours and Research Have Been Manifestations of Spiritual and Intellectual Life of the Russian People …”: Autobiography of the Narodnik, Religious Scholar, and Sociologist A. S. Prugavin (1898)

The recent years have seen a growing interest of scholars in the history right (non-revolutionary) wing Narodnichestvo (Populism), which was engaged cultural and educational activities interests people, personalities its prominent representatives. One such figures well-known publicist sociologist, researcher Old Believers sectarianism, who also studied state popular reading primary public education, Alexander Stepanovich Prugavin (1850–1920). Various aspects his work, especially field religious studies, are being studied; many works been republished. But until now, personality A. S. not become subject special monographic study, facts biography studied. In late 19th century, famous literary critic bibliographer Vengerov began collecting autobiographies modern writers scientists. This publication presents Prugavin’s autobiography written 1898, is kept Manuscript Department Institute Russian Literature Academy Sciences (Pushkin House) St. Petersburg fond (fond 377, series 7, file 2998, pp. 1-3). valuable source on life as well socio-political situation Russia last third century. It permits to understand formation political views, contribution study sectarianism conscious departure from this problem mid-1880s under pressure authorities turning studying sociology education. contains references all significant newspaper magazine publications books. A large number published by over 20 bespeaks high creative activity journalistic talent showcases existence liberal liberal-populist newspapers magazines (despite opposition authorities) regularly offering him their pages. clarify some points activity, intelligentsia, right-wing