Diaries of a Smolny Girl

The Smolny Institute, established by order of Catherine II, became the first educational institution for girls in Russia. Its mission was to “provide the state with educated women, good mothers, useful members of the family and society.” Over time, the institute lost its original purpose and turned into a closed, privileged establishment: behind its outwardly splendid appearance, it maintained almost barracks-like routines, while education was reduced to mechanical rote memorization.

In her memoir sketch, Elizaveta Vodovozova candidly describes the institute’s inner life: strict class ladies, the accepted “game” of adoration, modest and monotonous meals, as well as superficial teaching of its subjects. She also recounts K. D. Ushinsky’s educational reforms, which awakened the young pupil’s interest in real knowledge and completely changed her idea of what studying could be.