Peter's Declaration to Alexei - Essay Example

Peter's Declaration to AlexeiPeter I (the “Great”) was the czar of Russia between 1682 and 1725. He led to great expansion of his country together with modernization of military and an increase in the production. Although he was a very successful ruler and Russia thrived during his time, the issue that really irked him was who was going to be the next ruler after him. Peter I did indeed have a son, Alexei, who would have been the natural successor of the throne. However, it happened that the Alexei was weak and was not interested in ruling Russia.

He did not have any leadership qualities nor could he make decisions. Thus, this was a cause of great frustration to Peter and in the end he imprisoned his son who died there only.This declaration in question partakes of the conventions of the ethical will, a didactic literary genre popular with Russian moralists of all political persuasions. However, instead of actually giving some moral and practical advice to Alexei, Peter decides to deprive him of his right to the inheritance of the throne.

Peter I, though, does give reasons behind his attitude toward his son, one important issue being that Alexei does not even care to listen to him regarding the military affairs although they should be grateful to the military for being in the better position they were in now as compared to the previous times. It is apparent that Peter I felt that the art of war is something that should be known by every young man. He felt that it is the only way through which they can learn about order and defense and in Peter’s opinion these two things are extremely important ingredients for there to be a well ordered reign.

Peter’s own son, however, failed in this area and it was his decision to disinherit him as he is of no use to the kingdom he would be getting after Peter I. Peter I felt that Alexei cannot rule without having know-how of such things. Thus, without any hesitation Peter gave his son the status of a lazy slave and made him appear as a good for nothing lad who can never make into this world. Peter I was sad that he had not been able to change his son and make something out of him though he had tried every kind of act, including verbal and physical beatings and scolding.

He declared that Alexei would never be able to learn the royal trade and it would be best not to give him any such responsibility.It is also to be noted that Alexei did keep pledging his allegiance to his father. However, peter just did not believe him and I believe rightly so. I mean, how can someone believe a person will do well later on when he just does not come out of his lazy behavior? Therefore, Peter I took this step and it definitely must have been the last option for him, for no one wants to disinherit his own son and we know that Peter I tried to first make a man out of him but failed, leading him to have no choice but take this action.