UDC

94(430).044+05+06“1701–1806”

Authors

Roman Yu. Boldyrev
Higher School of Social Sciences, Humanities and International Communication,
Northern (Arctic) Federal University named after M.V. Lomonosov
2 prosp. Lomonosova, Arkhangelsk, 163002, Russian Federation;
e-mail: boldyrev_ry@mail.ru
German S. Ragozin
Higher School of Social Sciences, Humanities and International Communication,
Northern (Arctic) Federal University named after M.V. Lomonosov
2 prosp. Lomonosova, Arkhangelsk, 163002, Russian Federation;
e-mail: gragozin92@gmail.com

Abstract

This article dwells on the formation and transformation of the model of the Prussian state representation through changes in the architectural scene of Berlin capital city. Prussia used state and national myths as the main tools for state creation and to achieve recognition in Europe. During the period from 1701 to 1806, the royal power representation had undergone significant changes in different aspects: from the proportion of certain ideas in the state system, social, economic and cultural policies to the implementation of various images in art and architecture. Within the Austro-Prussian dualism in Germany, the created system of images of the ruling dynasty and power was a practical demonstration of ideological superiority and strength of the state institutions for both Austria and Prussia. Moreover, during the struggle of the two powers in Germany, ideology and its representation turned into a motivator and a means of politics. The face of the capital city is one of the main indicators of state transformation and struggle of the two systems within Germany. For Prussia, after the end of the Seven Years’ War the face of Berlin was reflecting a diplomatically recognized imperial state (that could influence international politics) rather than Austria’s emerging opponent. Alongside with these factors, Berlin’s architectural face was one of the mobilization means for the implementation of ideological programmes by the population. All these transformations were both reflected in buildings and monuments and changed their semiotic meanings due to certain events or political goals.

Keywords

Kingdom of Prussia, Austro-Prussian dualism, Frederick II, representation of power, Enlightenment, architecture of Berlin

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