Olga of Kiev: A Remarkable Historical Figure

Introduction

• Olga of Kiev was a woman of strength, intelligence, and influence.
• Her life involved political intrigue, strategic cunning, and a shift towards Christianity.
• Her conversion to Christianity is shrouded in mystery with conflicting historical accounts.

Early Life

• Born around 890.
• Married Igor, the ruler of Rus', in 903.
• Their union was significant both personally and politically.
• Their son, Sviatoslav, was born in 948.

Tragedy and Regency

• Igor was murdered in 945 by the Drevlians, a rebellious Eastern Slavic tribe.
• Olga became regent for her young son, Sviatoslav.
• Known for her brutal retribution against the Drevlians.
  • Actions included burying troops alive, immolation, and surprise attacks.

Conversion to Christianity

• Her conversion is a subject of historical debate with conflicting accounts.
• Two main Byzantine sources offer contradictory narratives:
  • Constantine VII: Documented Olga's visit to Constantinople in 957 but made no mention of her baptism, suggesting she was still a pagan.
  • John Skylitzes: Stated Olga was baptized in Constantinople post-952.

Supporting Accounts and Theories

• Adalbert of St. Maximin: Supports the later baptism theory; mentions Olga's baptism during Romanos II's reign (959-963).
• Political context: Her visits aimed at political and commercial negotiations.
  • Possible second undocumented visit around 960 to negotiate military alliances.
  • Conversion could have been a diplomatic gesture.

Russian Sources

• Russian primary Chronicle and James the Monk present conflicting baptism dates (954-955).
• Suggests a two-stage conversion process, common in Scandinavian practices.

Conclusions

• Evidence suggests Olga's baptism occurred in Constantinople during Romanos II's reign (around 960).
• Aligns with Adalbert’s account and the political dynamics of the time.
• Earlier Russian accounts may reflect a misunderstanding of conversion practices.
• Olga's conversion was pivotal for the later Christianization of Rus' under her grandson, Vladimir the Great.

Legacy

• Olga's story is a testament to her political prowess, strategic brilliance, and influence in Eastern Slavic history.