Russia and Russian studies. Reflections of the Hungarian historian about the times and himself

Abstract

The book by the famous Hungarian historian, professor, head of the Centre of Russian studies of the Budapest University by Loránd Eötvös, Dr. of historical studies, honorary Dr. of the Russian Academy of Sciences Szvák Gyula is reviewed. The book ‘On the service of Clio and those in power’ consists of six scientific articles on historical arguments, eleven small papers or lectures and ten iconic feature articles, framed by specific introduction and conclusion. In general the main content of the book is represented by the reflections of the author about the fortunes of historical science, about the history of the Russian-Hungarian relations, experiences of the meetings and communication with colleagues in the professional field of historical science. Professor Szvák relates the activity of the Centre of Russian Studies, which he organized, where for the first time they managed to open a masters programme. The main objectives of the curriculum are: orientation of the students in the field of problems of Russian and Soviet historiography, conducting research on the problems of Russian history, the study of Russian history, development of relations between Russia and the European Union. The purpose of the programme is the preparation of specialists well oriented in Russian affairs with high theoretical and practical grounding, capable of being mediators in contacts between Hungary and Russia. Remaining within Russian historiography, the author offers materials of various subjects and chronology for ‘Russian studies’. Thus this discipline, associated with the concept of cultural studies of an area, is intended to provide an integrated complex approach to the study of Russia in non-Russian higher education institutions. Professor Szvák poses a series of methodological problems underlining the fact that some problems cannot be solved with legitimate approaches of the historical science. At the same time a historian traditionally has little material to assert motivations of a person’s actions. In the last part of the book there are feature articles that can be attributed to the literature. They are personal portraits of ex-colleagues and teachers, who influenced in a manner the world outlook of the author. The author does not bypass the ethical aspect of professional activity of a historian. According to his assessment, a historian, serving not the authority but people, must call a spade a spade, clearly separate good from evil, humanity from inhumanity. Refs 10.