Lev Klein A famous Soviet and Russian scientist, historian, anthropologist. Date of Birth: 01.07.1927 Country: Russia

1. Lev Kleyin: A Distinguished Scholar and Advocate
2. Historiography and Archeology
3. Sexology
4. Homosexuality in Russian Culture
5. Political Activism
6. Arrest and Imprisonment
7. Post-Imprisonment and Influence

Lev Kleyin: A Distinguished Scholar and Advocate

Lev Kleyin (born 1946) is a renowned Soviet and Russian historian, anthropologist, and sexologist. His groundbreaking work has significantly contributed to our understanding of Russian history, Norse influence on its development, and the history and cultural implications of homosexuality.

Historiography and Archeology

As a historian and archaeologist, Kleyin played a pivotal role in the revival of the Norman theory, which attributes a significant role to Scandinavians in the establishment of the Rus state. In Soviet times, this theory was considered anti-patriotic, and its proponents faced persecution. Kleyin claims that his active advocacy for the theory led to his own repression on charges of sodomy, which he denies.

Sexology

Kleyin is a staunch advocate for the decriminalization, depathologization, and demedicalization of homosexuality. His book "The Other Love" provides a comprehensive overview of theories and perspectives on homosexuality, its origins, and the evolution of attitudes towards it throughout history. Approaching homosexuality primarily as an anthropologist and historian, Kleyin examines it in anthropological and historical-cultural contexts.

Homosexuality in Russian Culture

Kleyin's book "The Other Side of the Lamp: Unusual Love of Outstanding People" explores homosexuality in the biographies of prominent Russian figures, from Ivan the Terrible to Rudolf Nureyev. He argues that homosexuality has been present in Russian society throughout history, despite changing social and political contexts.

Political Activism

Kleyin identifies as a democrat, humanist, and proponent of liberal values. He opposes violence, particularly capital punishment, and actively campaigns against xenophobia, nationalism, anti-Semitism, and homophobia. His article "Diagnosis" warns of the growing process of fascistization in Russia, both within society and the government, leading towards the creation of a corporatist state.

Arrest and Imprisonment

In 1981, Kleyin was arrested on charges of sodomy, despite his colleagues' protests. He rejected the accusation, maintaining that he was innocent of the specific sexual acts alleged. While in prison, he was subjected to a thorough investigation by other inmates, who concluded that the charges against him were unfounded. Nevertheless, he was convicted, stripped of his academic degrees and titles, and served his full sentence in a labor camp.

Post-Imprisonment and Influence

Upon his release, Kleyin was determined to emigrate but eventually decided to remain in Russia. He was forced to defend his doctoral dissertation a second time and continued his research and activism. His prison experiences were recounted in the book "The Inverted World," published under the pseudonym Lev Samoylov.

Kleyin's scholarship has had a profound impact on Russian historiography, anthropology, and sexology. His advocacy for human rights and social justice has earned him recognition and respect among scholars, activists, and the general public.