Abstract
<jats:p>The monograph examines the most relevant topics of the genesis of the Russian elite, provides an analysis of the most important historical figures who determined the course of Russian history. The current state of elitist science allows us to reassess some positions, clarify specific details, and place accents. There are too many ideological myths in the history of the elites that need to be eliminated. The emphasis is on the traditions and motives of the behavior of elite subjects, the analysis of their ideological constants, cultural and ideological preferences. The genesis of the Russian elite of the 9th-17th centuries is presented as separate historical and cultural essays, as the restoration of portraits of prominent historical figures. It is intended for teachers, graduate students, students of humanities faculties of universities.</jats:p>