The Life of a Russian Woman Doctor

The Life of a Russian Woman Doctor by Anna Bek (1869–1954) yields rich insights into the lives of a generation of Russian women who lived at a time of revolutionary change, extraordinary challenges, and unprecedented opportunities. Written in a lively and compelling style, Anna Bek's memoir reveals not only the experiences but also the motives and values of women who sought education, independence, and self-sufficiency, the obstacles they encountered, and the influences of other women and men on their lives. This engrossing memoir also engages the special context of Siberian geography and history―the vast distances and isolation, the heterogeneous population of settlers, exiles, and convicts, the closeness and interdependence of families and communities, and the deep appreciation of nature. This book offers a rewarding excursion into Siberian social history and an intimate acquaintance with two exceptional individuals of great charm and courage―Anna Bek and her American editor, Anne D. Rassweiler.

Anne D. Rassweiler (1933–2002) was author of The Generation of Power: The Planning and Construction of Dneprostroi, 1927–1932.

Adele Lindenmeyr is Professor and Chair, Department of History, Villanova University, and author of Poverty Is Not a Vice: Charity, Society, and the State in Imperial Russia.