Lenin : a revolutionary life

From a highly distinguished author on the subject, this biography is an excellent scholarly introduction to one of the key figures of the Russian Revolution and post-Tsarist Russia.

Not only does it make use of archive material made newly available n the glasnost and post-Soviet eras, it re-examines traditional sources as well, providing an original interpretation of Lenin's life and historical importance. Focal points of this study are: - Lenin's revolutionary ascetic personality - how he exploited culture, education and propaganda - his relationship to Marxism - his changing class analysis of Russia - his 'populist' instincts.

A prominent figure at the forefront of debates on the Russina revolution, Read makes sure that Lenin remains in his place as a highly influential and significant figure of the recent past.