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A Wicked History
Catherine the Great: Empress of Russia
Discover the life and times of Catherine the Great, one of Russia's longest rulers. The wicked ways of some of the most ruthless rulers to walk the earth are revealed in these thrilling biographies (A Wicked History) about men and women so monstrous, they make Frankenstein look like a sweetheart.
128 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2009
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144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 3, 2018
Wow!! I didn't know much about Catherine, so this is fascinating. I'm enjoying seeing the timeline from Ivan the Terrible to the last Romanovs. Great, interesting, quick book. Read for grad school.
November 4, 2016
I'm excited to read more of this Wicked History series after getting a nicely succinct but detailed history of Catherine the Great who rose to power amidst adversity and ultimately had her horrid husband killed to secure her throne for over 30 years after taking it on when she was just 33.
She had her children taken from her by her husband's aunt, the then-queen, and worked hard and diligently reading and writing which is why she was an intelligent ruler.
Loved the presentation of the information.
She had her children taken from her by her husband's aunt, the then-queen, and worked hard and diligently reading and writing which is why she was an intelligent ruler.
Loved the presentation of the information.
March 28, 2022
This book gave me lots of information for my reading project.
November 8, 2017
very good book I thought it was very interesting throughout the whole book unlike many of the other books that ive read. i would reccomend this to anyone who likes action and history
February 1, 2017
The book Cathrine The Great by Zu Vincent is about a girl named Sopie who went to Russia to marry the prince at the age of 15 but she ment his mom the Emprees who hated her and changed her name to Catherine. Catherine ended up killing her husband to seize the throne of Russia. While she was Queen Russia experianced many defeats and victories. I enjoyed this book because it has action. I reccomend this book to anyone who likes history and action.
February 22, 2017
After reading a few of the other famously savage rulers in the A Wicked History collection I'm I bit surprised to see Catherine the Great listed in the series. Unless the author omitted numerous evils, her ambition seems to have been her greatest flaw yet also greatest strength. That being said this was a fantastically fun read to add depth to our World History text book where Catherine was but a footnote.
July 2, 2015
Friday,March 20,2015
Sophie as a young infant was an arrogant and strong tomboy by virtue of two reasons. Nonetheless, Princess Johanna’s most supreme objective was to make her daughter partake in royalty. Firstly, she began to take her daughter to every royal party that she was invited to no matter how far away, just to get Sophie used to a royal environment. Indeed, Sophie would always accept to attend these parties with her mom, and even learned how to walk like a princess although never reacted. Secondly, Sophie’s mother figured to teach her daughter extra lessons that would increase more chances of Sophie to partake in royalty. Indeed, “Tutors schooled her in the German Lutheran faith. They taught her dance, music, and language” and Sophie’s stubbornness would make her continue to bird hunt and horseback ride in spite of the causal and most beneficial qualities that could help her partake in royalty (Vincent 18). All in all, Sophie’s strong personality overwhelmed her mother’s plans and therefore not all plans succeeded.
The importance of royal positions is really crucial to any the Prussian society and is clearly illustrated within the infancy of Sophie. Nevertheless, Princess Johanna at first took part in a well-known family in which her parents were respected and wealthy, but disputes between her parents resulted in a new start for Princess Johanna. Furthermore, Sophie’s mother planned on giving her daughter the living conditions that she was supposed to be given despite the small mediums to make this happen. In addition, Sophie’s family wanted their daughter to partake in royal family, knowing that they would gain more wealth, respect, quit Stettin and recover problems within the family. Indeed, Sophie’s family had to live in Stettin regarding Sophie’s fathers’ job, “Sophie grew up in Stettin, a seaport on the Prussian border that her father governed” (Vincent 17). More or less, royal positions were crucial positions in the Prussian society and therefore Sophie’s family hope to partake in royalty through their daughter.
Sophie’s final presence in the royal family opens doors to boundless outcomes according to two main reasons. Nonetheless, at 11 years old Sophie became beneficial to King Frederick II and therefore earned herself and her family a position in royalty immediately after. Indeed, when Prussia got into conflicts with Austria and hoped to form alliances with Russia, Sophie was the only solution. Furthermore, she was recommended to marry Peter III (a German-speaking duke that relates to Swedish and Russian royal families) in order to make this plan feasible. Gratefully, Sophie’s acceptance led to an end to Prussian conflicts but resulted in conflicts with her 15-year-old husband. Indeed, Sophie despises Peter and figures that he will soon come to power: “Peter was one of the world’s most eligible bachelors. He was also immature and probably not very bright“ (Vincent 21). In conclusion, Princess Johanna’s end goal was fulfilled and Sophie earned a position in royalty that would inevitably open doors to a new future for Sophie in reference to Catherine the Great.
Friday, March 27, 2015
Foreshadowing is a vital element of plot that easily engages the audience to the story’s plot and sequence of events. Nonetheless, Sophie remains confident and brave that she will gain the throne someday according to Elizabeth’s (empress of Russia at that time) courageous experience, which overthrew Ivan VI. Furthermore, Sophie’s family were well informed of the fact that Peter III (Sophie’s husband) was going to partake in Russian monarchy and discard the Swedish monarchy. Indeed, “The childless empress adopted her nephew, Peter. She brought him to Russia, where he gave up his right to become Sweden’s king. Now the young duke was free to inherit the Russian throne” (Vincent 24). In addition, this foreshadows the fact that Sophie only has a short way left to fulfill her parents’ goal (mainly her mothers’) forasmuch as she needs the final approval of her participation in the Russian monarchy. In other words, through a series of clues one may hint that Sophie will indeed end up in a successful condition. In conclusion, Sophie’s chance had arrived and she only needs the final approval from Elizabeth in order to continue and accomplish her parent’s goal.
Suspense is a crucial principle of plot that easily hooks the audience to continue reading in order to find out more. Nevertheless, Sophie and her family are nervous and eager to the response of their daughter’s participation in the Russian monarchy. In fact, “Weeks passed, and Sophie grew nervous. She new that other young women had sent their portraits to St. Petersburg, hoping for Peter’s hand” (Vincent 24). Furthermore, suspense is displayed in the following: “Surely those women weren’t burdened with Sophie’s long nose and pointed chin”, but Sophie was strong, intelligent, and determined (Vincent 24). As a result, Sophie’s family begins to worry for the good advancement in their objective, which also can be annihilated once their daughter would be favored on by another woman. However, a turning point discards this problem of worriedness, “’Personal! Very Urgent! To the Very High and Well-Born Princess Johanna Elizabeth of Anhalt-Zerbst, in her castle of Zerbst’” (Vincent 25). More or less, the audience has a better sense of Sophie’s current case ideally through suspense.
Atmosphere is a conspicuous component of plot that diligently attracts the audience to the story’s main conflicts/ scenes. Nonetheless, Sophie’s case happens to express a harsh and mostly sad atmosphere by virtue of two reasons. Firstly, Sophie has to leave her family and apparently never see her father again since her mother is going with her. Indeed, Sophie’s family’s mission mostly succeeded but somewhat partially failed because of the future absence of Sophie to her parents and her country. At this point, there is a growth to a sad atmosphere and especially within the dialogue between Sophie and her father. In other words, “He made Sophie promise not to convert to Russian Orthodoxy. She agreed, even though she doubted it was a promise she could keep. Marriage to Peter would mean adopting Russian ways” (Vincent 27), “The preparations for the journey only added to Prince Christian’s anxiety” (Vincent 27). Long story short, Atmosphere is a key component that better illustrates Sophie’s case and indeed builds interest to the audience.
Friday, April 10, 2015
Characterization is a crucial element in the description of characters and always a good way to engage and inform the audience of the character. Nonetheless, the author uses direct and indirect characterization in order to introduce a new character: Queen Elizabeth (current queen of Russia). In addition, direct characterization is used to describe Elizabeth’s qualities that enable her to maintain her position as leader. Thereafter, “She was considered to be intelligent, treacherous, and vain” (Vincent 30). Furthermore, indirect characterization is used to describe Elizabeth’s grand wealth. Indeed, “…She owned 15,000 French designed dresses and 5,000 pairs of shoes” (Vincent 30). In conclusion, characterization is crucial element in order to engage the audience to the introduction of new characters or significant changes in personality prior to main characters.
Character types are a vital aspect in the clarification of the character’s growth/ development. Nonetheless, Catherine’s actions reveal that she is a round and dynamic character. Firstly, she is a round and developed character that easily switches to the Russian Orthodox Teachings. Indeed, “She studied Russian culture, language, and religion from a tutor” (Vincent 32). Secondly, she is a dynamic character forasmuch as she breaks her father’s advice regarding the fact that Queen Elizabeth rechristened her to the Russian Orthodox. In other words, “Princess Catherine was re-christened. From now on, she would be known as Catherine Alexeyevna, or Catherine. More or less, character types are indeed a vital aspect in order to demonstrate the growth or development of characters.
Throughout, future events of Catherine’s stay in the Russian territory, one may observe that intentional diverse conflicts lead to success. Nonetheless, Peter’s unwanted marriage to Catherine after affects in conflicts between the couples. Indeed, “He declared that he didn’t love her, and she was disgusted by his immaturity” (Vincent 33). Furthermore, repeated conflicts like ignorance enables her to plan more on ways to achieve her mere goal: empress of Russia. As a matter of fact, Catherine’s planning in her free time away from her husband is successfully getting better; “became the Grand Duchess of All of the Russias” (Vincent 33). Long story short, Catherine’s free time away from her husband causes her to plan more on her future in Russia and indeed benefits her.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Catherine’s presence in the Russian territory builds a distinct sense of hatred between Elizabeth and Catherine, and yet Catherine escapes this hatred through unusual reasons. Nonetheless, Elizabeth views Princess Johanna and Catherine against her in terms if seizing the throne from her. Indeed, “Elizabeth had never trusted the scheming, striving Princess Johanna” (Vincent 38) and thereafter Princess Johanna was sent back to Germany. Furthermore, Elizabeth’s treatment and behavior with Catherine changed substantially. As a result of Elizabeth’s hatred towards Catherine, she was put in a separate room where spies would surround her. Now that Catherine is alone and Elizabeth is against her, will Catherine still seize the throne? In conclusion, Catherine’s presence in the Russian territory inevitably builds a distinct sense of hatred between Elizabeth and Catherine.
Catherine’s reputation increases drastically by being admired despite the Queen being against her. In addition, Catherine has a baby with Count Saltykov, which is a turning point in Elizabeth’s hatred prior to Catherine. Indeed, Elizabeth can no more punish Catherine, now that she is a baby that is likely to rule over Russia someday (considering his Russian nationality). Is it luck or fate? Nonetheless, Catherine views Peter’s absence as a means of hatred towards her and therefore is neglected by him, making her want to divorce him as soon as possible. Indeed, “…neglected by her husband, Peter, Catherine fell in love with Count Saltykov” (Vincent 42). In other words, she marries Count Saltykov to show Peter that she can be a good woman. Did she marry Count Saltykov to gain revenge over Peter or to gain recognition in Russia to assuage her probability of seizing the throne? In conclusion, Catherine’s reputation increases drastically by marrying Count Saltykov and disregarding Peter as well as by escaping her hatred to Elizabeth.
As Catherine escapes the hatred from Elizabeth, she somehow gets prettier and gains political influence/power. Nonetheless, she underwent intense suffering of taking care of her son that is her only tool to maintain her position in the Russian government, but recovered continued on working to seize the throne as soon as she recovered her health. Subsequently, “As soon as she recovered her health, she meant to seek out influential friends and make her voice heard in the political debates of the day” (Vincent 45). Furthermore, Catherine even began to form alliances with foreign rulers that would even make her gain more recognition and support. For example, Hanbury-Williams (British) that gave her large amounts of money for secret information that she provided. Is bribing good or bad? More or less, Catherine successfully escapes the hatred from Elizabeth and hereafter becomes a respected symbol and figurehead within and outer Russia.
Saturday, May 9, 2015
Foreshadowing is a vital element of plot that is copiously used towards the end of Catherine’s legacy in order to make the readers indirectly decipher a message that the author tries to convey, yet related to the current event. Nonetheless, Catherine is now 50 years old and out of 20 years of being empress she has learned a lot of stuff as part of being a good empress and now she has to face one of Russia’s greatest conquests: Battle over the Crimea with the Turks.. Alongside, “Armed with the powerful new ideas of the Enlightenment, how could she fail?” (Vincent 101). In addition, this foreshadows that because Catherine has taken the time to learn more about justice, peace, culture, etc., she is likely to succeed in the Battle over the Crimea. In fact, instead of taking advantage of the wealth she has and her position in society, she decided to learn more about the world she lives in by reading and studying different well-known philosophies. In conclusion, Catherine’s enlightenment may help her succeed in the Battle over the Crimea.
Suspense is a crucial principle of plot that easily hooks the audience to continue reading in order to find out more and is used towards the end of Catherine’s legacy. Nevertheless, Catherine travels to the Crimea before the battle begins and makes sure that the whole world is watching. Indeed, she begins by showing of Russian wealth, “Her supply train included 1,000 horses, 164 sleds, and countless servants” (Vincent 107). Furthermore, Catherine had ordered Potemkin (her closest adviser) to hide the ragged peasants and replace the huts in bad condition to better ones in order to give the foreign leaders a good view of Russia. This shows suspense because it is strange for an empress to do something like this before a major battle, but because she spent 20 years of study, this may help her succeed and simultaneously make the readers question themselves and continue reading. More or less, Catherine’s belief in involving the world in this battle is a mystery and a puzzle piece yet to be deciphered and therefore this is an example of suspense.
Atmosphere is a conspicuous component of plot that diligently attracts the audience to the story’s main conflicts/ scenes. Nonetheless, after that a Russian minister was arrested by the Ottomans, the Ottomans immediately declared war on Russia. Indeed, this battle was very severe and hectic, “… Declared war on Russia…Catherine ordered an attack against the Ottoman Empire” (Vincent 111). The Russians suffered many deaths and supplies during this battle. In other words, Russian soldiers successfully added Crimea to their realm and then rushed to finish the construction of their ships in order to attack Constantinople (apparently the wealthiest city at that time) by sea. Unfortunately, a storm had stroked the fleet and most of the fleet was destroyed in addition to the limited time of their construction. As a result, Potemkin died and Catherine tried to defend Russian territory as long as she could but then numerous invasions from the north, south, west led to her decision in signing a peace treaty with the Ottomans
Sophie as a young infant was an arrogant and strong tomboy by virtue of two reasons. Nonetheless, Princess Johanna’s most supreme objective was to make her daughter partake in royalty. Firstly, she began to take her daughter to every royal party that she was invited to no matter how far away, just to get Sophie used to a royal environment. Indeed, Sophie would always accept to attend these parties with her mom, and even learned how to walk like a princess although never reacted. Secondly, Sophie’s mother figured to teach her daughter extra lessons that would increase more chances of Sophie to partake in royalty. Indeed, “Tutors schooled her in the German Lutheran faith. They taught her dance, music, and language” and Sophie’s stubbornness would make her continue to bird hunt and horseback ride in spite of the causal and most beneficial qualities that could help her partake in royalty (Vincent 18). All in all, Sophie’s strong personality overwhelmed her mother’s plans and therefore not all plans succeeded.
The importance of royal positions is really crucial to any the Prussian society and is clearly illustrated within the infancy of Sophie. Nevertheless, Princess Johanna at first took part in a well-known family in which her parents were respected and wealthy, but disputes between her parents resulted in a new start for Princess Johanna. Furthermore, Sophie’s mother planned on giving her daughter the living conditions that she was supposed to be given despite the small mediums to make this happen. In addition, Sophie’s family wanted their daughter to partake in royal family, knowing that they would gain more wealth, respect, quit Stettin and recover problems within the family. Indeed, Sophie’s family had to live in Stettin regarding Sophie’s fathers’ job, “Sophie grew up in Stettin, a seaport on the Prussian border that her father governed” (Vincent 17). More or less, royal positions were crucial positions in the Prussian society and therefore Sophie’s family hope to partake in royalty through their daughter.
Sophie’s final presence in the royal family opens doors to boundless outcomes according to two main reasons. Nonetheless, at 11 years old Sophie became beneficial to King Frederick II and therefore earned herself and her family a position in royalty immediately after. Indeed, when Prussia got into conflicts with Austria and hoped to form alliances with Russia, Sophie was the only solution. Furthermore, she was recommended to marry Peter III (a German-speaking duke that relates to Swedish and Russian royal families) in order to make this plan feasible. Gratefully, Sophie’s acceptance led to an end to Prussian conflicts but resulted in conflicts with her 15-year-old husband. Indeed, Sophie despises Peter and figures that he will soon come to power: “Peter was one of the world’s most eligible bachelors. He was also immature and probably not very bright“ (Vincent 21). In conclusion, Princess Johanna’s end goal was fulfilled and Sophie earned a position in royalty that would inevitably open doors to a new future for Sophie in reference to Catherine the Great.
Friday, March 27, 2015
Foreshadowing is a vital element of plot that easily engages the audience to the story’s plot and sequence of events. Nonetheless, Sophie remains confident and brave that she will gain the throne someday according to Elizabeth’s (empress of Russia at that time) courageous experience, which overthrew Ivan VI. Furthermore, Sophie’s family were well informed of the fact that Peter III (Sophie’s husband) was going to partake in Russian monarchy and discard the Swedish monarchy. Indeed, “The childless empress adopted her nephew, Peter. She brought him to Russia, where he gave up his right to become Sweden’s king. Now the young duke was free to inherit the Russian throne” (Vincent 24). In addition, this foreshadows the fact that Sophie only has a short way left to fulfill her parents’ goal (mainly her mothers’) forasmuch as she needs the final approval of her participation in the Russian monarchy. In other words, through a series of clues one may hint that Sophie will indeed end up in a successful condition. In conclusion, Sophie’s chance had arrived and she only needs the final approval from Elizabeth in order to continue and accomplish her parent’s goal.
Suspense is a crucial principle of plot that easily hooks the audience to continue reading in order to find out more. Nevertheless, Sophie and her family are nervous and eager to the response of their daughter’s participation in the Russian monarchy. In fact, “Weeks passed, and Sophie grew nervous. She new that other young women had sent their portraits to St. Petersburg, hoping for Peter’s hand” (Vincent 24). Furthermore, suspense is displayed in the following: “Surely those women weren’t burdened with Sophie’s long nose and pointed chin”, but Sophie was strong, intelligent, and determined (Vincent 24). As a result, Sophie’s family begins to worry for the good advancement in their objective, which also can be annihilated once their daughter would be favored on by another woman. However, a turning point discards this problem of worriedness, “’Personal! Very Urgent! To the Very High and Well-Born Princess Johanna Elizabeth of Anhalt-Zerbst, in her castle of Zerbst’” (Vincent 25). More or less, the audience has a better sense of Sophie’s current case ideally through suspense.
Atmosphere is a conspicuous component of plot that diligently attracts the audience to the story’s main conflicts/ scenes. Nonetheless, Sophie’s case happens to express a harsh and mostly sad atmosphere by virtue of two reasons. Firstly, Sophie has to leave her family and apparently never see her father again since her mother is going with her. Indeed, Sophie’s family’s mission mostly succeeded but somewhat partially failed because of the future absence of Sophie to her parents and her country. At this point, there is a growth to a sad atmosphere and especially within the dialogue between Sophie and her father. In other words, “He made Sophie promise not to convert to Russian Orthodoxy. She agreed, even though she doubted it was a promise she could keep. Marriage to Peter would mean adopting Russian ways” (Vincent 27), “The preparations for the journey only added to Prince Christian’s anxiety” (Vincent 27). Long story short, Atmosphere is a key component that better illustrates Sophie’s case and indeed builds interest to the audience.
Friday, April 10, 2015
Characterization is a crucial element in the description of characters and always a good way to engage and inform the audience of the character. Nonetheless, the author uses direct and indirect characterization in order to introduce a new character: Queen Elizabeth (current queen of Russia). In addition, direct characterization is used to describe Elizabeth’s qualities that enable her to maintain her position as leader. Thereafter, “She was considered to be intelligent, treacherous, and vain” (Vincent 30). Furthermore, indirect characterization is used to describe Elizabeth’s grand wealth. Indeed, “…She owned 15,000 French designed dresses and 5,000 pairs of shoes” (Vincent 30). In conclusion, characterization is crucial element in order to engage the audience to the introduction of new characters or significant changes in personality prior to main characters.
Character types are a vital aspect in the clarification of the character’s growth/ development. Nonetheless, Catherine’s actions reveal that she is a round and dynamic character. Firstly, she is a round and developed character that easily switches to the Russian Orthodox Teachings. Indeed, “She studied Russian culture, language, and religion from a tutor” (Vincent 32). Secondly, she is a dynamic character forasmuch as she breaks her father’s advice regarding the fact that Queen Elizabeth rechristened her to the Russian Orthodox. In other words, “Princess Catherine was re-christened. From now on, she would be known as Catherine Alexeyevna, or Catherine. More or less, character types are indeed a vital aspect in order to demonstrate the growth or development of characters.
Throughout, future events of Catherine’s stay in the Russian territory, one may observe that intentional diverse conflicts lead to success. Nonetheless, Peter’s unwanted marriage to Catherine after affects in conflicts between the couples. Indeed, “He declared that he didn’t love her, and she was disgusted by his immaturity” (Vincent 33). Furthermore, repeated conflicts like ignorance enables her to plan more on ways to achieve her mere goal: empress of Russia. As a matter of fact, Catherine’s planning in her free time away from her husband is successfully getting better; “became the Grand Duchess of All of the Russias” (Vincent 33). Long story short, Catherine’s free time away from her husband causes her to plan more on her future in Russia and indeed benefits her.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Catherine’s presence in the Russian territory builds a distinct sense of hatred between Elizabeth and Catherine, and yet Catherine escapes this hatred through unusual reasons. Nonetheless, Elizabeth views Princess Johanna and Catherine against her in terms if seizing the throne from her. Indeed, “Elizabeth had never trusted the scheming, striving Princess Johanna” (Vincent 38) and thereafter Princess Johanna was sent back to Germany. Furthermore, Elizabeth’s treatment and behavior with Catherine changed substantially. As a result of Elizabeth’s hatred towards Catherine, she was put in a separate room where spies would surround her. Now that Catherine is alone and Elizabeth is against her, will Catherine still seize the throne? In conclusion, Catherine’s presence in the Russian territory inevitably builds a distinct sense of hatred between Elizabeth and Catherine.
Catherine’s reputation increases drastically by being admired despite the Queen being against her. In addition, Catherine has a baby with Count Saltykov, which is a turning point in Elizabeth’s hatred prior to Catherine. Indeed, Elizabeth can no more punish Catherine, now that she is a baby that is likely to rule over Russia someday (considering his Russian nationality). Is it luck or fate? Nonetheless, Catherine views Peter’s absence as a means of hatred towards her and therefore is neglected by him, making her want to divorce him as soon as possible. Indeed, “…neglected by her husband, Peter, Catherine fell in love with Count Saltykov” (Vincent 42). In other words, she marries Count Saltykov to show Peter that she can be a good woman. Did she marry Count Saltykov to gain revenge over Peter or to gain recognition in Russia to assuage her probability of seizing the throne? In conclusion, Catherine’s reputation increases drastically by marrying Count Saltykov and disregarding Peter as well as by escaping her hatred to Elizabeth.
As Catherine escapes the hatred from Elizabeth, she somehow gets prettier and gains political influence/power. Nonetheless, she underwent intense suffering of taking care of her son that is her only tool to maintain her position in the Russian government, but recovered continued on working to seize the throne as soon as she recovered her health. Subsequently, “As soon as she recovered her health, she meant to seek out influential friends and make her voice heard in the political debates of the day” (Vincent 45). Furthermore, Catherine even began to form alliances with foreign rulers that would even make her gain more recognition and support. For example, Hanbury-Williams (British) that gave her large amounts of money for secret information that she provided. Is bribing good or bad? More or less, Catherine successfully escapes the hatred from Elizabeth and hereafter becomes a respected symbol and figurehead within and outer Russia.
Saturday, May 9, 2015
Foreshadowing is a vital element of plot that is copiously used towards the end of Catherine’s legacy in order to make the readers indirectly decipher a message that the author tries to convey, yet related to the current event. Nonetheless, Catherine is now 50 years old and out of 20 years of being empress she has learned a lot of stuff as part of being a good empress and now she has to face one of Russia’s greatest conquests: Battle over the Crimea with the Turks.. Alongside, “Armed with the powerful new ideas of the Enlightenment, how could she fail?” (Vincent 101). In addition, this foreshadows that because Catherine has taken the time to learn more about justice, peace, culture, etc., she is likely to succeed in the Battle over the Crimea. In fact, instead of taking advantage of the wealth she has and her position in society, she decided to learn more about the world she lives in by reading and studying different well-known philosophies. In conclusion, Catherine’s enlightenment may help her succeed in the Battle over the Crimea.
Suspense is a crucial principle of plot that easily hooks the audience to continue reading in order to find out more and is used towards the end of Catherine’s legacy. Nevertheless, Catherine travels to the Crimea before the battle begins and makes sure that the whole world is watching. Indeed, she begins by showing of Russian wealth, “Her supply train included 1,000 horses, 164 sleds, and countless servants” (Vincent 107). Furthermore, Catherine had ordered Potemkin (her closest adviser) to hide the ragged peasants and replace the huts in bad condition to better ones in order to give the foreign leaders a good view of Russia. This shows suspense because it is strange for an empress to do something like this before a major battle, but because she spent 20 years of study, this may help her succeed and simultaneously make the readers question themselves and continue reading. More or less, Catherine’s belief in involving the world in this battle is a mystery and a puzzle piece yet to be deciphered and therefore this is an example of suspense.
Atmosphere is a conspicuous component of plot that diligently attracts the audience to the story’s main conflicts/ scenes. Nonetheless, after that a Russian minister was arrested by the Ottomans, the Ottomans immediately declared war on Russia. Indeed, this battle was very severe and hectic, “… Declared war on Russia…Catherine ordered an attack against the Ottoman Empire” (Vincent 111). The Russians suffered many deaths and supplies during this battle. In other words, Russian soldiers successfully added Crimea to their realm and then rushed to finish the construction of their ships in order to attack Constantinople (apparently the wealthiest city at that time) by sea. Unfortunately, a storm had stroked the fleet and most of the fleet was destroyed in addition to the limited time of their construction. As a result, Potemkin died and Catherine tried to defend Russian territory as long as she could but then numerous invasions from the north, south, west led to her decision in signing a peace treaty with the Ottomans
July 13, 2018
Catherine the Great schemed her way from being a minor princess to empress of Russia. She had lots of ideas, some that she never was able to carry out, and could be pretty ruthless when it came to dealing with enemies. This Catherine the Great Wicked History book tells her story and asks if she really was wicked or just did what she had to do to achieve her goals. I highly recommend this book to kids learning about Imperial Russia.
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April 10, 2022This book gives very important information while not making the readers bored. it interests the reader while making it easy to understand. this story is about Catherine the Great and it focuses on the main points of her life, she learns from what she does and grows. I recommend this book to people who likes history as well as biographies that are intresting.
May 31, 2017
A very short book, but really could whet the appetite of someone just dipping their toe into Russian history!
March 11, 2018
Little more than an overview of Catherine’s rise to power and reign but it was a quick read. The reading level is younger than I thought it would be but the series is interesting.
July 4, 2018
Kiddo and I love reading these biographies together.
December 18, 2018
Great information about her.
April 29, 2023
Written to be engaging. In terms of historical rigor and placing responsibility on the shoulders of people in power, it was a little lacking. Possibly a good introductory book for middle grades.
September 14, 2024
I don't really believe she was wicked, though... 😅
December 20, 2024
Interesting and informative middle grade book. History presented in an engaging way with fun extra tidbits thrown in.
June 3, 2025
4.0 A great introduction for people who want to know more about Catherine the Great, but who don't have time to read a 500 page biography.
February 23, 2017
Catherine the Great was a princess of a poor town in Germany. Her mother, Johanna, always wanted power, but she couldn't get it. So, when Chatherine was born, Johanna did everything she could to make her royal-ready. Catherine was very educated, so when she did get married, she was no match to her sickly and unintelligent husband. When Empress Elizabeth of Russia died, Peter, Catherine's husband, became emperor. Many people did not like the way he leading, so Catherine took the opportunity and pushed him aside. Soon after this, she became the Empress of Russia, and conquered many.
"Catherine the Great: Empress of Russia" by Zu Vincent is a very fascinating book. It texplains all of the things Catherine gas done with her life, which you'll find very interesting if you read the book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes biographies.
"Catherine the Great: Empress of Russia" by Zu Vincent is a very fascinating book. It texplains all of the things Catherine gas done with her life, which you'll find very interesting if you read the book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes biographies.
April 12, 2015
Little Sophia in born in Prussia where her father was the prince. Sophia's mother took good care of her. Sophia had a good education she knew had to speak several different languages. As she is growing up her mother is starting to take her to parties and balls. Sophia was married really young. She got married to the future tsar of Russia. She was chosen by the empress of Russia Elizabeth.
Sophia's husband did not lover her. She did not love him either. She had a lot of of secret lovers and her husband had a lot of mistresses. Sophia had to change her name to Catherine because the empress told her to. She ad two kids but they did not know who they were from. The empress did not care about rumors she was she was certain that the kid was of Catherine's husband,Peter.
to conclude husbands are never to trust. Well love is the major thing in a couple. without love there is betrayal all over the place. Peter did have mistresses and so did Catherine .
catherine finally dies. she ruled for many years and she did it by herself. she was brave. all she did was of course for people she did not want to let them down like her husband did. she tried to the the opposite of what her husband did. after she killed him there was only happiness in the country of russia.
russia and its people were happy. peter was not a really good ruler the only thing he new how to do well was care for himself. even the old empress of russia wanted to choosse catherine instead of peter but she could not. if she did that would prove that peter wwas bad and the old empress of russia did not want o show that in front of her citizens. well she chose peter but catherine beated him at his own game. too bad for peter he died. that what it takes after he charted on her.
this is what happened this week. after 30 years of ruling catherine finally dies. that is a bummer because not only her people admired her some people from other countries more then admired her. she risked her life for people to get vaccinated is that really amazing. she did more then that but at the end all this came to an end.
Sophia's husband did not lover her. She did not love him either. She had a lot of of secret lovers and her husband had a lot of mistresses. Sophia had to change her name to Catherine because the empress told her to. She ad two kids but they did not know who they were from. The empress did not care about rumors she was she was certain that the kid was of Catherine's husband,Peter.
to conclude husbands are never to trust. Well love is the major thing in a couple. without love there is betrayal all over the place. Peter did have mistresses and so did Catherine .
catherine finally dies. she ruled for many years and she did it by herself. she was brave. all she did was of course for people she did not want to let them down like her husband did. she tried to the the opposite of what her husband did. after she killed him there was only happiness in the country of russia.
russia and its people were happy. peter was not a really good ruler the only thing he new how to do well was care for himself. even the old empress of russia wanted to choosse catherine instead of peter but she could not. if she did that would prove that peter wwas bad and the old empress of russia did not want o show that in front of her citizens. well she chose peter but catherine beated him at his own game. too bad for peter he died. that what it takes after he charted on her.
this is what happened this week. after 30 years of ruling catherine finally dies. that is a bummer because not only her people admired her some people from other countries more then admired her. she risked her life for people to get vaccinated is that really amazing. she did more then that but at the end all this came to an end.
June 22, 2011
Although I've referenced the book on Catherine the Great here, I have read several books in this series. Each book discusses a major historical figure with a bad reputation. Subjects include Ivan the Terrible, Robespierre, Napoleon, Mary Tudor, Rasputin, Catherine the Great and many others.
The books begin with a map showing key locations pertaining to the story, along with a “wicked web,” which is like a family tree of important connections in the person’s life. They all conclude with a chapter entitled “Wicked?” which summarizes the person’s life but asks the reader to form his or her own opinion, a great way to encourage critical thinking skills. The final chapter is followed by a timeline and additional resources, both print and online.
The books in this series are very well written. They offer a succinct history of the era in which each person lived, the influence they had, and the reasons for their notoriety. In fact, parents might learn as much from these books as their children. But because they do not gloss over the violent lives of their subjects, the books may be a bit too intense for younger readers. Tales of poisoning, murder, massacres, and torture (Ivan the Terrible burned and boiled people alive) may be frightening. Other mature themes include infidelity, seduction, and drunkenness.
Although I recommend this series highly for its quality, gender diversity, and excellent presentation, I would also suggest that parents read a couple of the books before sharing them with their children to gauge whether the material is suitable.
The books begin with a map showing key locations pertaining to the story, along with a “wicked web,” which is like a family tree of important connections in the person’s life. They all conclude with a chapter entitled “Wicked?” which summarizes the person’s life but asks the reader to form his or her own opinion, a great way to encourage critical thinking skills. The final chapter is followed by a timeline and additional resources, both print and online.
The books in this series are very well written. They offer a succinct history of the era in which each person lived, the influence they had, and the reasons for their notoriety. In fact, parents might learn as much from these books as their children. But because they do not gloss over the violent lives of their subjects, the books may be a bit too intense for younger readers. Tales of poisoning, murder, massacres, and torture (Ivan the Terrible burned and boiled people alive) may be frightening. Other mature themes include infidelity, seduction, and drunkenness.
Although I recommend this series highly for its quality, gender diversity, and excellent presentation, I would also suggest that parents read a couple of the books before sharing them with their children to gauge whether the material is suitable.
February 19, 2013
Catherine the Great By Zu Vincent
Biography
128 pages
This is the life of a woman who went from unloved princess Sophie to Empress Catherine the Great. She was born in 1729 known as Sophie. By the time she was 15, Sophie and her mother were invited meet Empress Elizabeth and Peter, her son. By 1744, Sophie transformed to the Russian Orthodox faith and was to marry Peter the next year, little did she know would change her name to Catherine. Nine years past and she gave birth to a son that Empress Elizabeth named Paul. Three years later, a daughter named Anna. Elizabeth and Catherine did not get along well. 1761, The Empress Elizabeth died and the immature Peter becomes tsar. In 1762, Catherine gave a secret birth to her son, Alexis, who was raised by the trusted servants. Later, Catherine seized power from her husband, Peter, who was killed at a later time. By 1767, Catherine published the Great Instruction, which, called for equal rights by the law. She goes to war, hoping to seize Crimea. Catherine the Great also broke companions and goes to court. By 1783, Catherine annexed the Crimea. War breaks out and the French Revolution prompted Catherine to drive down on free speech in Russia. At 67, Catherine the Great died on November 16, 1796 due to a stroke. I gave this book four stars because it was a great story and she was a wonderful lady but, seemed to be quite the scary type.
Biography
128 pages
This is the life of a woman who went from unloved princess Sophie to Empress Catherine the Great. She was born in 1729 known as Sophie. By the time she was 15, Sophie and her mother were invited meet Empress Elizabeth and Peter, her son. By 1744, Sophie transformed to the Russian Orthodox faith and was to marry Peter the next year, little did she know would change her name to Catherine. Nine years past and she gave birth to a son that Empress Elizabeth named Paul. Three years later, a daughter named Anna. Elizabeth and Catherine did not get along well. 1761, The Empress Elizabeth died and the immature Peter becomes tsar. In 1762, Catherine gave a secret birth to her son, Alexis, who was raised by the trusted servants. Later, Catherine seized power from her husband, Peter, who was killed at a later time. By 1767, Catherine published the Great Instruction, which, called for equal rights by the law. She goes to war, hoping to seize Crimea. Catherine the Great also broke companions and goes to court. By 1783, Catherine annexed the Crimea. War breaks out and the French Revolution prompted Catherine to drive down on free speech in Russia. At 67, Catherine the Great died on November 16, 1796 due to a stroke. I gave this book four stars because it was a great story and she was a wonderful lady but, seemed to be quite the scary type.
October 21, 2012
genre is biography
117 pages
The name of this book is called,"Catherine the Great Empress of Russia by Zu Vincent." Catherine was a very intelligent person who always dreamed of having power. That was exactly what she got. As Catherine grew older she wanted to get married to someone who ruled in a kingdom of great power. She sent in a portrait of herself to King Peter who ruled over Russia. He was sent many portraits, but chose Catherine's. She then traveled to Russia to marry King Peter. Catherine hated Peter though. He was childish in behavior and did not respect Catherine. They had two children together. Then, Catherine started to secretly contact many important people that would later help her become ruler of Russia. When she did become ruler of Russia, she ordered a soldier to murder her husband Peter. She was willing to do anything to gain power and keep it!
I thought that this was a very interesting story. I truly believe that Catherine was an evil woman. For example, she murdered her own husband because she disliked him. Also, I think that this book showed how much Catherine wanted to rule a country and how far she would go to acheive her dream. She led as ruler of Russia for many years and Russia became one of the most powerful kingdoms in the world. Overall, I thought that this was a very good book.
117 pages
The name of this book is called,"Catherine the Great Empress of Russia by Zu Vincent." Catherine was a very intelligent person who always dreamed of having power. That was exactly what she got. As Catherine grew older she wanted to get married to someone who ruled in a kingdom of great power. She sent in a portrait of herself to King Peter who ruled over Russia. He was sent many portraits, but chose Catherine's. She then traveled to Russia to marry King Peter. Catherine hated Peter though. He was childish in behavior and did not respect Catherine. They had two children together. Then, Catherine started to secretly contact many important people that would later help her become ruler of Russia. When she did become ruler of Russia, she ordered a soldier to murder her husband Peter. She was willing to do anything to gain power and keep it!
I thought that this was a very interesting story. I truly believe that Catherine was an evil woman. For example, she murdered her own husband because she disliked him. Also, I think that this book showed how much Catherine wanted to rule a country and how far she would go to acheive her dream. She led as ruler of Russia for many years and Russia became one of the most powerful kingdoms in the world. Overall, I thought that this was a very good book.
January 19, 2015
Catherine the Great was a fascinating book about a famous russian emperor. To become the emperor of russia Catherine has to go through deep depression, loneliness, inconsiderate husbands, and hard work. When she was finally casted the emperor of Russia her great visions for her country did not exide as she thought they would have. Though she did expand Russia and made it more of a modern civilization she did not free the serfs(people little better off than slaves)that made up most of Russia's population which was one of her hopes for the country. One strength about this book is that it combines history with the feelings Catherine probably would have thought during her life. Catherine the great trying to free the serfs made me think of president Lincoln because he also tried to free the slaves in our country the difference is that president Lincoln succeeded and I think that if they both lived in the same time period maybe Catherine would find a bit more inspiration for her desire. To conclude, I think this is a very interesting nonfiction book that gives you a taste of exiting history.
April 3, 2020
Easy nonfiction biography for middle grade. Surprisingly quite accurate!
November 11, 2012
Catherine the great: Empress of Russia
This book was fascinating at some points like when Catherine kills her husband Peter and how her fleet at sea was one of the strongest fleets ever that could not be beat, but through my eyes it was not a very good book. So Catherine was first a princess of a country that was so small it was almost out of all the maps. Her name was Sophie, but after she went to Russia and married prince Peter her name was changed to Catherine. Peter kept on abusing his wife Catherine in many different ways like making her dress like a soldier, “On some days he made Catherine dress like a soldier and stand guard outside his room for hours”. Other times he would chase after all the women in the balls and parties. The book used many different vocabulary I have never seen before like scrutinized, flaunting, advocated and many others. So I think that this book can teach you many new vocabulary. I would not recommend this to all age levels since the book can be very confusing for younger readers.
This book was fascinating at some points like when Catherine kills her husband Peter and how her fleet at sea was one of the strongest fleets ever that could not be beat, but through my eyes it was not a very good book. So Catherine was first a princess of a country that was so small it was almost out of all the maps. Her name was Sophie, but after she went to Russia and married prince Peter her name was changed to Catherine. Peter kept on abusing his wife Catherine in many different ways like making her dress like a soldier, “On some days he made Catherine dress like a soldier and stand guard outside his room for hours”. Other times he would chase after all the women in the balls and parties. The book used many different vocabulary I have never seen before like scrutinized, flaunting, advocated and many others. So I think that this book can teach you many new vocabulary. I would not recommend this to all age levels since the book can be very confusing for younger readers.
October 10, 2012
This book was a great book to read, I thought it contained a lot of interesting history about Catherine and a great story written about her life. Throughout the book, it talks about her life as a kid and how she was a smart and kind princess. Later it talks about how she marries the son of the empress of Russia at a very young age.
I would recommend this book to readers who like books on amazing people with interesting lives and have the power to take over. I think this book deserves a 5/5 stars because it truly contains a lot of info that can be interesting to many different people of different ages. The kind of people who would mostly like this book are ones who are interested in powerful people who lived during the ancient times.
This book took place in the Middle ages and around the times of where there were sub kingdoms throughout Europe and Asia and private sectors of Land that individuals owned.
I would recommend this book to readers who like books on amazing people with interesting lives and have the power to take over. I think this book deserves a 5/5 stars because it truly contains a lot of info that can be interesting to many different people of different ages. The kind of people who would mostly like this book are ones who are interested in powerful people who lived during the ancient times.
This book took place in the Middle ages and around the times of where there were sub kingdoms throughout Europe and Asia and private sectors of Land that individuals owned.
March 23, 2013
Catherine the Great
Zu Vincent
Biography
128 pages
Catherine the Great was the wife of Emperor Peter of Russia. Catherine believed that Peter was despicable and idiotic. Hit wooed many women and did not do anything for Russia. Catherine waited patiently while Peter lost favor and when the time was ripe, she struck! She took control of Russia and ruled with an Iron Fist. Catherine took on the Turks and put down many coups! Was there anything she couldn't do?
I didn't enjoy this book very much because it was kind of boring.The series was called "Wicked History" and she wasn't even wicked! She took over Russia with good intentions for the common man and fought for more territory. None of that was wicked and the whole book was her waiting to seize power. It wasn't very exciting.
Zu Vincent
Biography
128 pages
Catherine the Great was the wife of Emperor Peter of Russia. Catherine believed that Peter was despicable and idiotic. Hit wooed many women and did not do anything for Russia. Catherine waited patiently while Peter lost favor and when the time was ripe, she struck! She took control of Russia and ruled with an Iron Fist. Catherine took on the Turks and put down many coups! Was there anything she couldn't do?
I didn't enjoy this book very much because it was kind of boring.The series was called "Wicked History" and she wasn't even wicked! She took over Russia with good intentions for the common man and fought for more territory. None of that was wicked and the whole book was her waiting to seize power. It wasn't very exciting.
April 6, 2015
Catherine the Great Empress of Russia, written by Zu Vincent is a biography about how Catherine took control of Russia. It all started with Catherine’s mother who wanted her to be successful and therefore marry well. Catherine achieves this when she marries the prince of Russia, Peter. She and Peter do not get along, and she has to work hard to keep the queen, Elizabeth to like her. After Elizabeth died, Catherine has the perfect opportunity to overthrow her husband and take control of Russia. I enjoyed this book because it introduced me to history from a different part of the world, in this case it was Russia.
November 14, 2016
Lately, I've been watching several historical dramas on Netflix, especially those from medieval times. So, when I saw this little historical account of Catherine the Great, I was intrigued. Apparently the overly dramatic, soap-opera-like shows I have been watching aren't far from the truth. Catherine married as a diplomatic move between countries. She became more of a Russian than her husband, and ended up overthrowing him to take over and rule the realm. Catherine was fierce, and this was just the beginning for her. I highly recommend this quick read (just 100 pages) to anyone looking for some good old-fashioned medieval action and adventure. It really is a wicked history!
January 15, 2011
This series will draw in readers with its dark humor and factual information. It makes good use of graphic images and maps to help tell the story. The information is good, and should be enough for middle schoolers. The author presents the facts, allowing the readers to decide if the person was wicked or not. Also helpful is the index, glossary, list of sources and suggestion for further reading.
It held my attention well and I am looking forward to reading the other titles in this series.
It held my attention well and I am looking forward to reading the other titles in this series.
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