Life of the Optina elder Ambrose. Agapit (Belovidov), Schiarchimandrite

The life of the great Optina elder Ambrose can rightfully be called the standard of Russian hagiography. It has unique content, the author is unique. The Optinsky inhabitant Schiarchimandrite Agapit (Belovidov), in addition to literary talent, had a rich monastic experience: he worked in the Optinsky monastery, later he was the abbot of several monasteries, then returned to his native abode. His hagiographic approach is distinguished by a thorough study of the material, impeccable historical honesty, author’s modesty, the lack of unnecessary vitality, pathos and omissions.