Why is Tartaria Becoming a Thing in Neo-Pagan Circles?

The resurgence of the term 'Tartaria' in the discourse of Slavic Neo-Paganism can be traced back to various motivations and historical inspirations.

Enter Tartaria: A Fictional Empire with a Purpose

Slavic Neo-Pagan nationalists have resurrected the name 'Tartaria', a fictional empire that never existed, based on 18th-century maps. This re-emergence of the term is not merely a historical exercise but a multifaceted attempt to reclaim a perceived sense of lost glory and supremacy.

Dealing with Humiliation and Insecurity

One of the primary reasons behind the adoption of 'Tartaria' is the desire to overcome the perceived humiliation and stigma associated with centuries of domination by the Mongol-Tatars. For Slavic Neo-Pagans, particularly Russian nationalists, the concept of 'Tartaria' provides a fantasy where Slavs, and more specifically Russians, are invincible and unconquerable. This reflects a deep-seated insecurity and a reluctance to accept the historical reality of Mongol influence on Slavic culture, which is depicted as a continuation of interbreeding and racial hybridization.

Fantasy of Ancient Aryan Dominance

Another driving force behind the revival of 'Tartaria' is the wish to create a mythology where Slavs or Aryans once possessed a mighty empire that ruled the world. This fantasy stems from a belief in the ancient Aryan origins of the Slavic people, positioning them as the most ancient of all civilisations, and the birthplace of all wisdom and esoteric knowledge. This narrative seeks to undermine traditional historical accounts and establish a new narrative that elevates the status of the Slavian/Aryan peoples.

Feeling Superior through Secret Knowledge

Slavic Neo-Pagans involved in the 'Tartaria' phenomenon also feel a sense of superiority and exclusivity because they believe they possess hidden secret knowledge that has been deliberately concealed from the broader public. This self-perceived superiority fosters a sense of belonging to a 'special club', which further reinforces their unique and superior position. The feeling that they are 'in the know' while the rest of the world remains in the dark adds to the allure and potency of the 'Tartaria' myth.

Conclusion

In summary, the revival of 'Tartaria' serves as a potent tool for reclaiming lost pride, dispelling perceived historical humiliation, and asserting the primacy and superiority of the Slavic/Aryan peoples. While it offers a sense of empowerment and security, it is important to critically evaluate such narratives and their underlying motivations. The proliferation of 'Tartaria' underscores the power of historical reimagining and the significance of myth-making in shaping collective identity and self-perception.