A. I. Bulgakov (1859–1907) as a Researcher of Anglicanism

The article analyzes the process of studying Anglicanism by the Kiev Theological Academy Professor A. I. Bulgakov. Having devoted his candidate’s and then his master’s thesis to the genesis and development of Methodism, Bulgakov later turned to the consideration of contemporary Anglicanism. He hoped that under the influence of the Oxford movement (Tractarianism), the Church of England would not only be able to restore the system of the Ancient Church, but would also move decisively in the direction of Orthodoxy. Using a very limited range of sources and exaggerating the pro-Orthodox orientation of the Oxford movement, Bulgakov nevertheless managed to present a very complete picture of the 19th century evolution of Anglicanism. Investigating the question of the Anglican hierarchy’s legitimacy, Bulgakov was ready to recognize it as valid in case the Church of England restored ancient Church canons. Bulgakov’s works laid the foundations of the tradition of studying the 19th century Anglicanism in Russia, and some of his works have not lost their scientific significance up to this day.