Abstract

In Russia the figure of the Athonite monk Maximus was generally interpreted in relation to traditional Orthodox values and, in particular, to his anti-Renaissance position. This study aims to read his biography in the light of the reforms taking place during the sixteenth century in Europe, and to highlight his role as educator. The ecclesiastic hierarchy tried to come to terms with Maximus's authoritative personality, making the most of his work to counter the influence of the Western world, both Catholic and Protestant. At the same time they kept him under strict control, while he was still alive, and intervened harshly against anything that might undermine the framework of the church and the monastic tradition, in which the seeds sown by the Athonite monk still continued to germinate.