Perspective

Robert K. Massie is a historian, trained at in American history at Yale University and, as a Rhodes Scholar, in modern European history at Oxford University. His first undertaking in Russian history is a bestselling biography of Nicholas and Alexandra, the last of the Romanov dynasty. That book is acclaimed for its combination of finding the "essence and drama of extraordinary lives." In 1980, Massie applies his talents to the pivotal reign of Peter the Great, as ancient Muscovy is brought into the modern world. Peter the Great wins the Pulitzer Prize in biography. The Acknowledgments describe his multiple trips to the Soviet Union and the surnames of those whom he thanks show the dedication with which he verifies the materials he has included in the book.

Massie seems wholly dedicated to interpreting for a modern audience a world and culture utterly foreign to its experience. He opens by...