Vladimir Solov’ev and the 19th-Century Pioneers of Catholic-Orthodox Reunion

Abstract

This article examines the life and work of the Russian thinker Vladimir Solov’ev (1853-1900) and his involvement in a circle of Catholics committed to the work of Catholic-Orthodox re-union in the late-nineteenth century. It analyses the intellectual influences on his thought in the early 1880s when he became an apologist for the Papacy and the work of reunion. Particular attention is given to the Catholic sources which helped shape Solov’ev’s views. Solov’ev’s own position on the reunion is considered, especially in the light of his relationship with Bishop Strossmayer. Other Catholic friendships are also examined, including those with the Jesuit priests Pirling and Martynov, the Russian convert Princess Volkonsky, and the French journalist Eugene Tavernier. In addition, the importance of lesser known figures such as the Barnabite Fr Tondini and the Polish Jesuit Marian Morawski is explored, as is Solov’ev’s reception of communion from the Byzantine-rite Catholic priest, Fr Nikolai Tolstoi. Far from being an isolated pioneer, Solov’ev emerges as one of a closely connected circle of Catholics committed to Catholic-Orthodox reunion.