Peter and Alexis

Set against the backdrop of the Russian Empire, the novel explores the intense conflict between Peter the Great and his son, Tsarevich Alexei, symbolizing the struggle between Antichrist and Christ for humanity's soul. Merezhkovsky challenges the traditional portrayal of Peter as a noble ruler, depicting him instead as a tyrant whose relentless pursuit of progress resulted in immense suffering. This work, part of the Christ and Antichrist Trilogy, offers a profound spiritual and historical commentary on the nature of power and sacrifice, resonating with contemporary readers.