DOMOSTROY Meaning and
Definition
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"Domostroy" is a term originating from Russia, specifically from the reign of Ivan the Terrible in the 16th century. It refers to a set of guidelines or rules prescribing proper household management. The word "domostroy" itself translates to "household order" or "household governance" in English.
The domostroy was meant to establish a system of principles and practices for organizing and maintaining a respectable and functional household. It encompassed various aspects of family life, including household chores, parenting, marriage, and religious observance. The domostroy sought to regulate both the behavior and the physical arrangements within the home.
These guidelines were primarily aimed at the upper classes, with an emphasis on landowners and nobility. The domostroy outlined the ideal roles and responsibilities for each family member, placing particular importance on hierarchies and the submission of women to male authority. It advocated for traditional gender roles, marriage practices, and the propagation of religious and moral values.
The domostroy can be seen as a reflection of the values and social norms prevalent in Russian society during that time. It represented a desire for order, stability, and continuity within the home. While its influence diminished over time, the domostroy remains an important historical document that provides insight into the cultural and social dynamics of Russia in the 16th century.
Etymology of DOMOSTROY
The word "domostroy" is derived from two Russian words: "dom" meaning "house" and "stroi" meaning "to build" or "to construct". The term "domostroy" can be translated as "household management" or "housekeeping" in English. It was originally used to refer to a set of guidelines or rules for maintaining a well-organized and orderly household in traditional Russian society. The most well-known example of the "domostroy" is a 16th-century manual called "Domostroy" written by Sylvester Medvedev, which provided detailed instructions on various aspects of household management. Over time, the word "domostroy" has also come to symbolize the patriarchal structure and moral values associated with traditional Russian family life.
