Domostroy. Ancient Russian Encyclopedia of Family Life

“Domostroy” – one of the most influential works of Russian literature of the 16th century, a guide to everyday life, family relationships, and spiritual life of medieval Russia. The book, written by Ivan the Terrible's confessor Protopope Silvester, contains recipes... of ancient cuisine, advice on parenting, managing finances, stockpiling supplies, and even instructions for organizing celebrations.
 
The publication is based on the “Domostroy of the Silvestrovsky Version” edited by writer and educator A. N. Chudinov (1902): it contains a complete consolidated version of the “Domostroy,” compiled from various lists and editions. The text is presented in a literary adaptation that facilitates comprehension for modern readers and is accompanied by footnotes.


The edition also includes rare texts on the traditions of Russian life – “Instructions for the Wedding Ceremony” and “Book on How to Serve Food at the Table Throughout the Year,” taken from the “Domostroy” edited by V. Yakovlev (1867). The book is complemented by popular scientific articles about the “Domostroy,” one of which is written by the great Russian historian Sergey Solovyov.