The second passage is very relevant as to the nature of Boris. The opposition between the two brothers is generated by their different approaches to possession, faith, and brotherhood. Sviatopolk plans to kill his own brother whereas Boris refuses even to defend himself from his brother. Also, the two siblings view possession differently. Boris is loved and well respected by his people, and knows how to be a good ruler whereas his older brother is only interested in accumulating wealth and power but does not care about his people as seen in the first selected paragraph when he gives them gifts only in hopes of buying their submission and approval. Last but not least, the difference in approach as far as religion is concerned between the two brothers is overwhelming. Boris chooses death over neglecting Christian morals whereas his brother has no problem killing him. Hence the parallel between Cain/Abel and Sviatopolk/Boris comes naturally. The devil is seen as rejoicing at the fratricide and the thought of having found a second Cain. It is also suggested that Sviatopolk's actions might be the work of the Devil; his voice is evil and his intentions murderous.

There is one truly amazing aspect about the story of Ss. Boris and Gleb, i.e. their unfading sense of duty and honor in both life and in the face of death. They provide an example of repentance and humility, the two qualities that represent the very basis...

The faithful Christian finds a beautiful example of bravery and two remarkable lives. Also, it is important to note that to a nonbeliever this story might seem not only hard to believe abut also unfair and will probably be treated with a great dose of skepticism. Indeed, it is only faith that can explain how someone can act so selflessly even in the face of death. no rational explanation can account for such a position which appears to follow no logics.
Great literature becomes national cultural heritage that remains relevant throughout the ages as proof of a country's traditions, religion and history. These three pieces of writing have a very special place in Russian literature in general. They are not limited to the period of time they were produced in, but on the contrary, they become more valuable as time passes and history becomes the only means of understanding and relating to the past. In this sense, each of these three literary works has contributed to Russian literature. The profoundly Christian morals of "Boris and Gleb" which defined early middle ages Russia, the political tribulations behind the accession to the throne in imperialistic Russia of the 17th century depicted in "Boris Godunov," and the social consequences of Russian expansionism as suggested through metaphors in "The Bronze Horseman" are all both incredibly valuable literary works as well as testimonials of their eras.