Intermediate Russian

Catalog description

Prerequisite: two semesters of Russian or equivalent Ahead of intermediate study, students already know the basics of Russian grammar; thus, this course will emphasize grammar review, ever more vocabulary, and more speaking of what is already known. We will turn to more reading, starting with a variety of texts with a strong oral orientation. Past studied texts have included: Daniil Kharms’ absurdist play, The Circus Shardam; the Soviet children’s classic, Mister Twister; and the famous Russian translation of Winnie the Pooh. At the end of this course, students should feel that they have a fairly sophisticated grasp of the language. Students will also participate in individual conference work with the instructor. While students may incorporate films and/or music into their conference projects, the hope of this one-on-one time is to prioritize additional reading, including song lyrics and/or screenplays, as well as poetry and short stories. As cultural opportunities in Russia remain limited, students will also be encouraged to use conference to explore the more broadly postcolonial but russophone world. As the crisis in Russia and Ukraine continues, that is where the interesting questions are being asked. Regular written 155 Russian homework will be required, along with weekly conversation sessions with the Russian assistant. Attendance at weekly Russian Table is strongly encouraged. Courses offered in related disciplines this year are listed below. Full descriptions of the courses may be found under the appropriate disciplines. Modern Violence: War, Terror, and Genocide (p. 80), Brandon Schechter History World War II in Europe: A Cultural History (p. 85), Brandon Schechter History Romanticism/Postmodernism: The Question of Literature (p. 95), Melissa Frazier Literature Dostoevsky and the 1860s (p. 101), Melissa Frazier Literature SARAH LAWRENCE INTERDISCIPLINARY…