“The Armor of Truth”. An Old Believer Hectographed Edition

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of Old Believer hectographed editions of the apologetic work by M. I. Brilliantov, “The Armor of Truth” (1895), based on materials from the Scientific Library of Moscow State University and other collections in Moscow, Ekaterinburg, Tula and Nizhny Novgorod. The author notes that hectographed editions are often unstable in terms of composition and design, which complicates their identification. Through a comparative analysis of a large number of copies, it was possible to clarify and supplement the known catalog by N. Yu. Bubnov. Significantly more editions have been identified than previously thought: seven editions of the “extended” version (four comprising 124 sheets and three comprising 120 sheets) and four editions of the “short” version (one comprising 71 sheets and three comprising 63 sheets). They differ in the number of lines per sheet, the arrangement of text within the block, the use of different paper grades, design elements (endpieces, initials), and the dating of the final text. Particular attention is paid to the parameter of the “fifth line” as an important distinguishing feature. Variations in chapter titles and the sequence of fragments have also been identified. The author has concluded that the reproduction of “The Armor of Truth” was more widespread than previously assumed, and that Old Believer hectographic workshops were more active. The question of the place of printing for most of the editions remains open, although sources mention Moscow and Tula. The article contributes to the scholarly description and introduction into circulation of new book monuments of Old Believer culture.