Ivan the Terrible:
* Early Loss and Instability: Ivan's childhood was marked by the death of his father, Vasili III, when he was only three years old. He was raised by his mother, Elena Glinskaya, who became regent but died when he was eight. This early loss and instability contributed to a volatile and unpredictable personality.
* Strict Education: He received a rigorous education, focusing on religion, law, and history. He was taught to be a strong and absolute ruler. This fostered a sense of entitlement and a belief in his divine right to rule.
* Witnessing Power Struggles: He witnessed the power struggles within the court, which contributed to his paranoia and suspicion.
* Early Assumption of Power: Ivan became Tsar at the age of three, though his power was only fully consolidated later.
Peter the Great:
* Stable Childhood: Peter's childhood was relatively stable, as he was born into a strong and secure ruling family. His father, Alexei Mikhailovich, was a capable ruler, and his mother, Natalia Naryshkina, provided him with a stable home environment.
* Informal Education: Peter received a more informal education, focusing on practical skills and military training. He was encouraged to explore his curiosity and pursue his passions.
* Limited Exposure to Court Intrigue: Compared to Ivan, Peter was relatively sheltered from the intrigues and machinations of the court.
* Late Assumption of Power: Peter became Tsar at the age of ten but only fully assumed power later, after a period of regency.
Key Differences:
* Early Loss vs. Stability: Ivan experienced significant trauma and instability in his early life, which shaped his personality, while Peter enjoyed a relatively stable upbringing.
* Strict vs. Informal Education: Ivan's education emphasized authority and tradition, while Peter's was more practical and allowed for exploration.
* Early vs. Late Assumption of Power: Ivan's early exposure to power and instability contributed to his authoritarian rule, while Peter's gradual rise to power allowed him to develop a more nuanced understanding of governance.
In summary: Ivan the Terrible's childhood was characterized by loss, instability, and a rigid education, while Peter the Great experienced a more stable and open upbringing. These contrasting childhood experiences significantly influenced their personalities and approaches to rulership.