Ivan the Terrible

Woe to him who incurs my displeasure.

c. 1560s — A direct and ominous warning of the consequences of displeasing him.

Controversial Unverifiable

I will build a strong Russia, even if it means breaking some bones.

c. 1570s — A pragmatic and ruthless statement about his nation-building ambitions.

Controversial Unverifiable

The Tsar's wrath is a righteous wrath.

c. 1560s — A justification of his anger as divinely sanctioned.

Controversial Unverifiable

I am not a tyrant, but a teacher and corrector.

1565 — Defending his brutal methods of rule

Controversial Unverifiable

Better to be feared by dogs than eaten by them.

1570 — On his philosophy of rule

Controversial Unverifiable

I am a slave, and not a king, to listen to the advice of others.

c. 1560s — From his letters to Prince Andrei Kurbsky, asserting his autocratic power and rejecting counsel.

Shocking Unverifiable

Why do you write to me? You are a traitor and a runaway, and I am a sovereign ruler.

c. 1564 — From his first letter to Prince Andrei Kurbsky, expressing his anger and asserting his divine right.

Shocking Unverifiable

Our power is God's power. He who opposes us opposes God.

c. 1570s — Reflecting his belief in his divine right to rule and justification for his absolute authority.

Shocking Unverifiable

If I do not punish my servants, who will punish them? And if I do not punish them, who will fear me?

c. 1570s — Reflecting his brutal philosophy of governance and maintaining power through fear.

Shocking Unverifiable

Woe to him who trusts in words more than deeds!

c. 1560s-1570s — From his letters, expressing a cynical view on trust and the importance of actions.

Shocking Unverifiable

Sayings by Ivan the Terrible