Chapter+15,+16

@Chapter 15, 16Chapter 15: Rasputin

Summary: Chapter 15 mainly gives a background of Rasputin and his rise to fame. Gregory Rasputin was a poor moujik who became a phenomenon in Russia by "healing" Czar Nicholas II's son Alexis who had hemophilia. Nicholas as well as Alexandra were amazed by Rasputin's "magical" abilities to heal sick people and perform miracles. Alexandra says the following about Rasputin: "I just could not believe my eyes. The little boy was not just alive- but well...Later I learned that Rasputin had not even touched the child but merely stood at the foot of the bed and prayed." (204)

Analysis: This chapter builds up hype about Rasputin, and ends on the story about Rasputin healing Alexis. This chapter leaves the reader wondering what happens next with Rasputin. In this chapter, Rasputin's eyes are brought up multiple times. Rasputin was said to have a gaze that intrigued people and his stare was like a force that was impossible to come. Massie also talks about the charisma of Rasputin and why he became so popular. __

Chapter 16: The Holy Devil

Summary: This chapter talks about Rasputin after he stops Alexis' bleeding. Rasputin becomes corrupt with all his publicity. He sleeps with countless women and goes around St. Petersburg looking for beautiful women. People become discontent with Rasputin and his perverted ways. Eventually, Rasputin is accused of rape and people doubt his title as the "Man of God." Rasputin is eventually brutally murdered for his actions.

Analysis: This chapter clearly shades a negative light on Rasputin, especially compared to the first chapter about Rasputin. Massie uses sadistic comments about Rasputin that are actually quite comical: "By 1911, St. Petersburg was in uproar over Rasputin. Not all the husbands were complaisant, nor all the ladies of St. Petersburg enjoyed having their buttons undone." (209). This chapter clearly highlights Rasputin's downfall.