Here is a complete biography of Ivan Aksakov, a prominent intellectual figure in Russia during the reigns of Tzars Alexander II and III. Aksakov began his fiery career as a critic of Slavophilism, a movement created by his brother Konstantin, along with Alexis Khomiakov, the brothers Kireevskii, and others, which sought to divorce Russia from the West and all Western influence. Circumstances, however, turned Aksakov into the fanatical leader of the Slavophiles, making him a passionate nationalist and Pan-Slavist, and a fierce anti-Semite. Although he accepted the reforms of the 1860's, he feared that their results would lead to the further Westernization of Russia; and, toward the end of his life, disillusioned and despairing, he lent a generous hand to reaction.

This book is based on a meticulous study of primary sources such as collected works, correspondence, private memoirs, and recollections.