“The End Times” in Journalism of Russian 19th Century Political Conservatism

Abstract

This article examines the perspectives on the End times presented by influential figures in the Russian conservative movement, including Konstantin Leontyev, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Bishop Moisey (Bogdanov-Platonov-Antipov). While these figures agree that the universe is approaching its end, they offer contrasting evaluations of this process. Leontyev’s view of the End times is pessimistic, characterized by the decay of the physical world and the spiritual degradation of humanity. In contrast, Dostoevsky’s apocalyptic vision is generally optimistic, suggesting that in the End times, both the world and humanity will regain their original, pre-fall state. This article also touches on the topic of Jews discussing the End times, with Dostoevsky frequently incorporating Jews into his apocalyptic narratives. According to Dostoevsky, Jews are inherently focused on the material world due to their desire for the restoration of a Jewish state in historical Israel. Chasing their political goal, Jews promote simulacra – technical progress, capitalism, market oriented economy, egalitarianism, etc. – and postpone the beginning of the new world.