The Life of the Archpriest Avvakum, by Himself

The Life of Archpriest Avvakum Petrovich, by Himself, is an autobiography written by Avvakum Petrovich, a prominent leader of the Old Believers. The Old Believers were a group who opposed the liturgical reforms introduced by Patriarch Nikon of the Russian Orthodox Church in the mid-17th century. These reforms aimed to align Russian Orthodox practices with Greek customs, but they were met with fierce resistance from those who wished to preserve the traditional Russian rites.1234

Avvakum Petrovich was a staunch defender of these old rites and became a leading figure in the opposition to Nikon's reforms. His strong stance led to his persecution, including banishment and imprisonment. It was during his confinement that he penned his autobiography, considered a foundational work of modern Russian literature due to its vivid style and original voice. The conflict between the Old Believers and the reformed Russian Orthodox Church resulted in severe persecution for dissenters, with Avvakum himself ultimately being burned at the stake in 1682.12