Star of the North
Catherine the Great’s intellectual pursuits were as remarkable as her romantic entanglements. She harbored a deep appreciation for the minds of influential thinkers, prominently featuring the French philosopher Voltaire in her circle. Over 15 years, Catherine engaged in a profound correspondence with Voltaire, earning her the title “The Star of the North” for her pivotal role in the modernization of Russia.
This relationship extended to other luminaries of the time, including d’Alembert and Diderot, the latter of whom found refuge under Catherine’s protection in Russia due to threats from the French Government. Catherine’s commitment to fostering intellectual connections left an indelible mark on her reign.
