Final answer:
The Orthodox Church has played a significant role in shaping modern Russian culture through its impact on national identity, social order, and artistic expression, with the tradition of icon painting influencing many aspects of Russian art and political representation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The influence the Orthodox Church had on modern Russian culture is multifaceted and deeply rooted in the country's history. As the dominant religion in Russia, it was historically intertwined with the state, helping to shape national identity, especially during periods of foreign rule, such as under the Mongol Horde. The Orthodox Church was also pivotal in the promotion of obedience to the Tsar, underpinning the social order of Tsarist Russia.
Artistically, the tradition of icon painting, which became central to Russian art, is a significant cultural legacy of the Orthodox Church. This iconographic tradition influenced other forms of artistic expression, such as political posters and avant-garde art, with notable artists like Kazimir Malevich drawing on this heritage.
Furthermore, leadership in Russia has historically been portrayed with superhuman or supernatural abilities, a practice that can be traced back to the deeply ingrained tradition of venerating icons in the Russian Orthodox Church, serving as a cultural reference for representations of political power.