Memoirs of the Empress Catherine II. Written by Herself

"Memoirs of the Empress Catherine II" by Empress of Russia Catherine II is an intimate look into the life of the Russian ruler, told from her own perspective in the mid-19th century. The book reveals Catherine's early life and her ascent to power within the complicated world of the Russian court, showing her struggles as she maneuvers through schemes and strong desires for power. The memoir starts with a note describing the manuscript's interesting past and how it came to be published. Catherine reflects on her younger days, highlighting her hunger for power despite the limits placed on her by court life. She also describes her early relationship with Peter III and the power plays and personal clashes within the royal court. Catherine’s intelligent and ambitious voice quickly becomes clear, setting the scene for her rise to the throne, showing that her story is about both her personal growth and her country's fate.