HIST 181BRussian Culture & Civilization

Catalog

The course provides a chronological overview of Russian civilization from pre-Christian times to the 20th century, paying particular attention to the geographic, social, artistic, economic, and political forces that have combined to give the Russian people and their culture their unique characteristics. It will examine Russia as a cultural, national, and historical entity part of and yet apart from both Europe and Asia through a variety of sources such as literature, music, film, visual arts, and historical documents. The course will examine certain determinants of Russian culture, including Christianity, multi-nationalism, and the status of Russian civilization on the periphery of Europe. Course will examine myths, traditions and events that have shaped Russians' view of themselves as a people as well as the image of Russia on the world stage.