The fourth part (volume 4) includes 16 lectures. They focus on two “epochs”—Peter the Great and the palace coups of 1725–1762. The main attention is paid to Peter I’s personality and a critical analysis of his activities, his reforms, and their significance in strengthening the noble state.
In the last 12 lectures of the fifth part (volume 5), the events from Catherine II’s accession to the abolition of serfdom (1861) are presented. Special attention is given to the personal assessment of Catherine II, Paul I, Alexander I, Nicholas I, and the domestic policies they pursued.