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...
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