In the Afterglow of the Russian Silver Age: Sergii Bulgakov's "Judas Iscariot–Apostle–Betrayer"

This article examines Sergii Bulgakov's essay "Judas Iscariot—Apostle—Betrayer," drawing attention to its literary and theological qualities. The article situates Bulgakov's essay in its historical-literary context, as well as its place in Bulgakov's own thought. Here there is a connection with his Philosophy of Name, and his understanding of the human person. A comparison of Bulgakov's essay with a short story by Leonid Andreev, "Judas Iscariot" with which it shares many features, particularly in its psychological portrayal of Judas, is helpful for understanding Bulgakov's distinct interpretation of the religious problem posed by Judas. Arguing for a more nuanced interpretation of Judas's role in history, Bulgakov views him as a symbol both tragic and hopeful for the destiny of Russia since the revolution of 1917.