Herzen: The Dysfunction Of The State And Russian Society

The state and Russian society clearly, from Herzen’s prospective, did not warrant his affection, nor his loyalty: it warranted active moral opposition. Even before adulthood, he was labeled problematic for his class. Herzen matched it and alienated himself from the state as well. Throughout his time in provincial Russia (where we was forced to work in civil service, he makes it clear he does not want to be associated with the state. Herzen’s own actions and his desire was perfectly exemplified when he needed to borrow money to return to Moscow. An innkeeper lent it to him free of interest. The man then said, ”We know it all, of course; we know you were not serving of your own will and didn't behave yourself like the other officials, the Lord