Provisional University Bulletin (2024-2025)

• Minor
• Major (BA)

The Russian Studies program at Brandeis offers students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the language, literature, culture, and history of Russia and the former Soviet Union. The Russian language serves as the gateway to the study of Russian literature and history. A diverse selection of courses offered both within and beyond the department allows students to focus their studies on a variety of cultural, literary, social and political aspects of Russia and other post-Soviet states. The program regularly sponsors co-curricular events for Russian students, including film series, lectures, and Russian tea hours featuring Russian language conversation for students of all levels. Students are encouraged to study in Russia for a summer, semester or year. Links to approved study programs in Russia can be found on the Brandeis Study Abroad website.

Undergraduate Major and Minor

Language study constitutes the core of the program. All our language courses are designed to familiarize students with both high culture and the norms of everyday social interactions. A four-semester sequence of foundational Russian language courses (RUS 10a, 20b, 30a, and 40b) allows students to reach the Intermediate-Mid level of proficiency according to the ACTFL language scale. This language sequence is followed by content-based language courses (100 level) focusing on increasing proficiency across all four modalities (speaking, listening, reading and writing) through engagement with literature, film and contemporary Russian culture. Students who complete the language requirement for the major and minor by taking language courses at Brandeis are expected to be at the Intermediate-Mid or Intermediate-High levels of proficiency. Students who study abroad for at least one semester in addition to learning Russian at Brandeis are expected to reach the Advanced-Low to Advanced-Mid levels. Students are encouraged to include study abroad in Russia as part of their major.

The program also accommodates the language needs of heritage speakers of Russian, i.e., students who grew up in Russian-speaking families or bilingual households. These students have a unique opportunity to take a sequence of language courses to develop their language skills. The sequence starts with a specialized course for heritage students who have never formally studied the language and/or who cannot read and write in Cyrillic. Beyond this initial course, heritage speakers of Russian can take upper-level content-based language courses which aim to develop their bilingual competencies through engagement with Russian literature, film and culture as well as hone their critical thinking skills in Russian through close reading/watch and textual analysis.

Bilingual students interested in Russian language study and/or the Russian major and minor are encouraged to consult with the Russian Language Program Director early on in their academic career in order to determine the appropriate course of study.

Electives can be chosen from among rich offerings in Russian and comparative literature, film and culture, as well as history, politics, and courses on Russian Jewish history. Literature courses focus on the major authors and works of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Most literature electives are taught in English in order to make them accessible to a broad range of students. Students of Russian are encouraged to do as much of the literature course readings as possible in Russian.

Russian Studies is dedicated to understanding the language, literature, culture and history of Russia and the former Soviet Union. The Russian language is spoken by almost 300 million people worldwide. Russia and the former Soviet Union have a complex history which made major contributions to world culture in literature, visual art, music, dance, theater, opera, film, philosophy, psychology, literary theory, and other areas.

Beyond the language knowledge it offers, the major takes students on an intellectual journey into Russian literature, culture and history through courses taught in both English and Russian. The major is based on a strong interdisciplinary approach which encourages students to become sophisticated analysts of Russian cultural traditions expressed through language, literature, film, theater, history and politics.

Knowledge

Students completing the major in Russian Studies should:

1. Possess a substantial core of knowledge about the Russian language and literature as well as have a general understanding of modern Russian and Soviet history and culture;
2. Be familiar with the major Russian creative writers of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries;
3. Understand the dynamic relations between various kinds of cultural texts and their historical contexts;
4. Understand the resources and methods of at least one of the disciplines included in Russian Studies;
5. Use their understanding of literary, linguistic and historical analysis to raise and explore new questions about Russia and the Russophone world;
6. Appreciate the diversity and complexity of human thought and experience, as expressed in the similarities and differences between Russian- and English-speaking cultures.

Core Skills

The Russian Studies major emphasizes Brandeis University's core skills in critical thinking and communication. Students completing a degree in Russian Studies will acquire the ability and skills to:

1. Write and converse in Russian at least at the Intermediate-High level as defined by the ACTFL;
2. Demonstrate independence in comprehending Russian texts produced in written or oral modalities on a variety of non-technical subjects that are relevant to disciplines beyond language study;
3. Analyze complex texts through critical close reading and respond to them in sophisticated and coherent English;
4. Apply basic critical methodologies to the study of Russian literature, history, and culture;
5. Engage in research in the field using primary and secondary sources;
6. Generate original ideas and insights using knowledge of the Russian language and critical skills acquired through the study of Russian history and culture.

Social Justice

The Russian Studies curriculum prepares graduates to participate as informed citizens in a global society by exposing them to a different cultural tradition, the history of another complex civilization that combines both western and non-western aspects, and the diversity of language through which human experience is expressed and conveyed. The various components of the major strive to foster understanding of and respect for cultural traditions of Russia and other Newly Independent States. Language study and the practice of literary analysis foster self-reflection and inquiry, and prepare graduates to be life-long learners.

Upon Graduating

A Brandeis student with a Russian Studies major will be prepared to:

1. Pursue graduate study and a scholarly career in Russian, Russian literature, Second Language Acquisition, or any discipline focusing Russia and the Russophone world; or
2. Use the knowledge and perspectives gained from the sustained study of Russian language, history and literature to pursue professional training and a range of careers in any field dealing with Russia and the CIS including government, law, politics, anthropology, area studies, international business, journalism, international relations, education, and human rights.

A major in Russian may obtain the Massachusetts teaching certificate at the high school level by additionally completing requirements of the education program. Interested students should meet with the Education program director.

Students considering a Russian major or minor should complete the language requirement as soon as possible. Students who wish to discuss issues of language placement should speak to the director of the Russian language program. All other questions about the major or the minor should be directed to the undergraduate advising head.

Irina Dubinina, Director of the Russian Language Program
(German, Russian, and Asian Languages and Literature)

Robin Feuer Miller, Chair of the Department of German, Russian and Asian Languages and Literature
(German, Russian, and Asian Languages and Literature)

David Powelstock, Undergraduate Advising Head for Russian Studies
(German, Russian, and Asian Languages and Literature)

Affiliated Faculty
ChaeRan Freeze (Near Eastern and Judaic Studies)
Gregory Freeze (History)
Dmitry Troyanovsky (Theater Arts)
Steven Wilson (Politics)

1. Advanced Language and Literature Study: one of the following courses: RUS 105a, 106b, 121b, 150b, 153a.

2. Russian Studies Electives: Four Russian Studies electives chosen from the list below.  At least one of these courses must be a RECS course and at least one must be a non-RECS, non-RUS course. Students have the option of counting a second Advanced Language and Literature Study course (RUS 105a, 106b, 115b, 121b, 150b, and 153a), taken beyond the Advanced Language and Literature Study requirement under (A), toward the total of four Russian Studies Electives, but minors must still take at least one RECS elective and at least one non-RECS, non-RUS elective. Although most RECS courses are taught in English, minors are encouraged to do as much of the required reading in Russian as possible. Additional courses with appropriate content may be counted as electives by student petition to the UAH. To be assured of receiving credit for such courses, the student must consult with the UAH before taking the course.

3. No course with a final grade below C- can count toward fulfilling the minor requirements in Russian Studies.

4. No course taken pass/fail may count toward the minor requirements.

1. Proseminar: RECS 100a (Understanding Russian Culture: Myths and Paradoxes) or COML 100a (Introduction to Global Literature) to be completed no later than the junior year.
2. Advanced Language and Literature Study: two of the following courses: RUS 105a, 106b, 115b, 121b, 150b, 153a, 160b. At least one of the two must be a literature course conducted in Russian (RUS 150b or RUS 153a).
3. Russian Studies Electives: Five Russian Studies Electives chosen from the list below. At least two of these courses must be RECS courses and at least one must be a non-RECS, non-RUS course. Students have the option of counting a third Advanced Language and Literature Study course (RUS 105a, 106b, 115b, 121b, 150b, 153a, and 160b),  taken beyond the  Advanced Language and Literature Study requirement under (B), toward the total of five Russian Studies Electives, but majors must still take at least two RECS electives and at least one non-RECS, non-RUS elective. Although most RECS courses are taught in English, majors are encouraged to do as much of the required reading in Russian as possible. Additional non-RECS courses with appropriate content may be counted as electives by student petition to the UAH. To be assured of receiving credit for such courses, the student must consult with the UAH before taking the course.
4. Foundational Literacies: As part of completing the Russian Studies major, students must:
   • Fulfill the writing intensive requirement by successfully completing one of the following: RECS 130a, RECS 144b, or RECS/THA 140a.
   • Fulfill the oral communication requirement by successfully completing one of the following: RECS 135a, RECS 144b, RECS/THA 148a, RUS 106b, RUS 150b, or RUS 160b.
   • Fulfill the digital literacy requirement by successfully completing one of the following: RECS 100a, RUS 29b, RUS 30a, RUS 105a, RUS 106b, RUS 115b, RUS 150b, RUS 153a, or RUS 160b
5. Majors wishing to graduate with departmental honors must enroll in and complete RUS 99a and RUS 99b (Senior Thesis), a two-semester sequence. Before enrolling, students should consult with the UAH and must arrange to be advised by a faculty member in the department who has agreed to direct the thesis. Honors are awarded on the basis of cumulative excellence in all courses taken in the major and the grade on the honors thesis, as determined by the department faculty. The second semester of the senior thesis, RUS 99b, may be counted toward the five required Russian Studies Electives.
6. No course with a final grade below C- can count toward fulfilling the major requirements in Russian Studies.
7. No course taken pass/fail may count toward the major requirements.

RUS 10a Beginning Russian I

Four class hours and one recitation hour per week.

For first-time learners of Russian. This course is an engaging introduction to the Russian language and culture. Students will acquire basic communication skills in Russian by actively speaking, writing, listening, and reading in the language. Learning is enhanced by interactive online learning modules and authentic communicative tasks. Students will also develop a basic understanding of Russian culture and worldview. Active participation is essential. Usually offered every fall.

RUS 20b Beginning Russian II

Prerequisite: RUS 10a with a grade of C- or higher or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Four class hours and one recitation hour per week.

For students with some previous study of Russian. Continuing development of proficiency across all four skills with the goal of reaching the Intermediate-Low level (ACTFL scale). Student-centered classes emphasize conversation and structural accuracy. Students will complete the learning of the grammatical architecture of the language and expand their vocabulary. Usually offered every spring.

RUS 29b Russian Language for Russian Speakers
[ dl ]

One additional hour of recitation required.

For students who grew up speaking Russian at home but have received no or minimal formal education in the language. Students will develop or improve their reading skills, acquire the foundations of writing in Russian, and expand their speaking ability through developing attention to linguistic form and dramatically expanding their vocabulary to include complex topics. Learning is enhanced by interactive online learning modules and authentic communicative tasks. Students will also engage in critical thinking about their bilingualism and multiculturalism. Active participation is essential. Usually offered every fall.

RUS 30a Intermediate Russian I
[ dl fl ]

Prerequisite: RUS 10a and RUS 20b or the equivalent. Not intended for Russian-English bilinguals; please contact language program director, Irina Dubinina, with questions about placement. Four class hours and one recitation hour per week.

Students will develop their proficiency in Russian to the intermediate level which will allow them to participate meaningfully in spontaneous spoken or written exchanges and make presentations on a variety of familiar and everyday topics. Students will also continue developing their reading and listening comprehension skills and growing their knowledge of Russian culture. Learning is enhanced by students' participation in a digital story project on a Russian-speaking city of interest. Active participation is essential. Usually offered every fall.

RUS 39b Russian Language for Russian Speakers II
[ fl ]

Prerequisite: RUS 29b or permission of the instructor.

Students the (re)acquisition of the Russian linguistic system focusing on the conceptual understanding of the language structure. A comprehensive instruction aims to enhance students' ability to express the intended meaning correctly and appropriately. Usually offered every spring.

RUS 40b Gateway to Advanced Topics in Russian Language and Culture
[ fl hum ]

Prerequisite: RUS 30a with a grade of C- or higher or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Four class hours and one recitation hour per week.

Focuses on expanding the range of contexts for language use and pushing for a greater ease and structural accuracy of language production. Further refining of grammar and vocabulary within the context of Russian culture. Authentic texts and films are used for creating context for reviewing and expanding grammar, syntax and vocabulary knowledge. Usually offered every spring semester.

RUS 92a Internship

Usually offered every year.

RUS 98a Independent Study

May be taken only with the permission of the adviser to majors and the chair of the department. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor.

Reading and reports under faculty supervision. Usually offered every semester.

RUS 98b Independent Study

May be taken only with the permission of the adviser to majors and the chair of the department. May be repeated for credit with permission of the instructor.

Reading and reports under faculty supervision. Usually offered every year.

RUS 99a Senior Research

Students should consult the area head of their major.

Usually offered every year.

RUS 99b Senior Thesis

Students should consult the area head of their major.

Usually offered every year.

COML/REC 136a All in the Family: Tolstoy, Dostoevsky and the English Novel
[ hum ]

Selected novels and writings of Austen, Dostoevsky, Tolstoy and Woolf will be read to trace both the evolution of the novel and the meanings, contexts and depictions of the family. The family novel encompasses such larger questions as how we regard the pain of others and how we define community. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 100a Understanding Russian Culture: Myths and Paradoxes
[ dl hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian. Satisfies the Proseminar requirement for the Russian Studies major.

Russia has given the world renowned cultural luminaries such as Tolstoy and Tchaikovsky. At the same time, the Russian state—in different historical forms—has a long tradition of censoring, imprisoning, or even murdering artists and intellectuals. One scholar suggests that even as the Russian Empire has violently expanded its boundaries, the state has “colonized” its own people. Paradoxically, this very repression has made culture politically relevant—sometimes reinforcing imperial ideology, sometimes subverting it—and charged it with particular urgency. This course takes us inside the paradox, looking at some of the most important works of modern Russian literature, film, philosophy, visual art, music, theater, opera, and ballet in the context of the country’s troubled history. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 131a The Twentieth-Century Russian Novel
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian.

An introduction to the major novels of the modernist, Soviet, and post-Soviet eras, including the emigration, such as those by Sologub, Bely, Olesha, Bulgakov, Pasternak, Nabokov, Solzhenitsyn, Erofeev, and Pelevin. May also include some short stories. Usually offered every fourth year.

RECS 134b Writer, Dramatist, Physician: Chekhov and The Healing Arts
[ hum wi ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Most students will choose to read the works in English translation, but students who know Russian may do the readings in Russian.

Explores Chekhov as a fiction writer, a dramatist, and a devoted physician. Many of his artistic works, including a number where doctors figure as primary characters, read as case studies of particular diseases, mental illnesses, and conditions induced by poverty. Chekhov practiced the healing arts in all aspects of his professional and creative life, as well as in his courageous efforts on the remote penal-colony island of Sakhalin and in his dangerous public work during a terrible cholera epidemic. This course will emphasize the skills of close looking—techniques equally valuable to the writer, the dramatist, and the physician. We will read works about children and the nature of childhood, about students, about “the woman question,” about peasants, about religion, about marriage and adultery. We will also read two plays: The Seagull and Uncle Vanya. Students will consider the ebb and flow between Chekhov’s efforts as a dramatist and a story-teller.  We will engage with some of Chekhov’s most vivid, candid, and intriguing letters about medicine and art. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 135a Russian Short Fictions: Where is Justice in This World?
[ djw hum oc ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian.

Focuses on the great tradition of the short story as practiced by Russian writers and the connection and divisions among them. This genre invites extreme stylistic and narrative experimentation ranging from the comic to the tragic, as well as being a vehicle for striking expressions of complex social, philosophical, and religious themes. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 144b Tolstoy and Dostoevsky: Confronting the Novel
[ hum oc wi ]

Where do Tolstoy and Dostoevsky fit in the theory and history of the novel? Students will engage in close readings of two of the greatest novels of all time: War and Peace and The Brothers Karamazov. We will explore the genesis of each work, its cultural backdrop and critical responses. Usually offered every third year.

RECS 150a Russian and Soviet Cinema
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Readings in English.

Examines the Russian/Soviet cinematic tradition from the silent era to today, with special attention to cultural context and visual elements. Film masterpieces directed by Bauer, Eisenstein, Vertov, Parajanov, Tarkovsky, Mikhalkov, and others. Weekly screenings. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 152a Russian Science Fiction Literature and Film
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Readings in English.

Examines the Russian science fiction tradition in the context of philosophical, historical, and political developments, with attention to topics such as futurism, science and technology, the perfectibility of humanity, the nature of time, the proximity of the unknown, and otherness. Usually offered every third year.

RECS 154a Vladimir Nabokov: Art and Ethics
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Readings in English.

A concentrated study of Vladimir Nabokov, the most noted Russian author living in emigration and one of the most influential novelists of the twentieth century. Focuses on the major Russian- and English-language novels, with special attention to the interplay within them of Nabokov’s philosophy of art and his views on ethics and morality. Usually offered every third year.

RECS/THA 140a Russian Theater: Stanislavsky to Present
[ ca djw hum wi ]

Throughout its history, Russian theatre has tried to communicate truthfully in a mostly repressive society. This course introduces students to the achievements of theatre artists from Stanislavsky through Post-Modernism. We will examine the work of groundbreaking directors like Meyerhold, Vakhtangov, and Lyubimov. We will read and analyze representative works of major modern and contemporary playwrights. The course load consists of readings, discussions, papers and in-class projects. Usually offered every second year.

RUS 105a Russia Today: Advanced Language Skills through Contemporary Culture
[ dl fl hum ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Taught in Russian.

For advanced students of Russian language (non-heritage learners) who strive for advanced-level proficiency in all four modalities (listening, reading, speaking and writing). Explores aspects of contemporary Russian society and culture, including such topics as education, social media, religion, gender relations, environment and others. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 106b Advanced Russian Language through Film
[ dl fl hum oc ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Taught in Russian.

For advanced and heritage students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, listening, and writing. Course activities will focus on discussions of contemporary Russian feature films and documentaries. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 115b Topics in Russian Culture and Society
[ dl fl hum ]

Prerequisite: Advanced Russian language skills.

For heritage and advanced students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, reading and writing. Introduces students to issues central to Russian folklore. Through an analysis of chronicles, icons, epic tales, and folktales, discussions will explore the roots of Russian cultural values and beliefs. Students will examine structures and archetypes in folktales and magic tales. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 121b Russian-English Translation
[ fl hum ]

Prerequisite: RUS 30a or demonstrated equivalent proficiency.

Students will acquire practical skills for dealing with the particular challenges of Russian-English translation. Students will also improve their reading comprehension; vocabulary; understanding of advanced Russian grammar topics; and awareness of cultural differences necessary for translating effectively. Usually offered every second year.

RUS 150b Advanced Russian Language through 20th Century Literature
[ dl fl hum oc ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b or the equivalent, or instructor permission. Taught in Russian. Course may be repeated for credit with instructor's permission.

A seminar for continuing students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, reading and writing. Focusing on the close study of Russian literature in the original Russian and the development of Russian oral and written language skills needed for the close reading and discussion of literature. Usually offered every second year.

RUS 153a Advanced Russian Language through 19th Century Literature
[ dl fl hum ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent, or instructor permission. Taught in Russian.

An undergraduate seminar for heritage and advanced students of Russian. Focus on the study of 19th-century Russian literature in the original and development of Russian oral and written skills needed for the close reading and discussion of literature. Usually offered every fourth year.

COML 100a Introduction to Global Literature
[ dl hum oc ]

Core course for COML major and minor.

What is common and what is different in literatures of different cultures and times? How do literary ideas move from one culture to another? In this course students read theoretical texts, as well as literary works from around the world. Usually offered every year.

RECS 100a Understanding Russian Culture: Myths and Paradoxes
[ dl hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian. Satisfies the Proseminar requirement for the Russian Studies major.

Russia has given the world renowned cultural luminaries such as Tolstoy and Tchaikovsky. At the same time, the Russian state—in different historical forms—has a long tradition of censoring, imprisoning, or even murdering artists and intellectuals. One scholar suggests that even as the Russian Empire has violently expanded its boundaries, the state has “colonized” its own people. Paradoxically, this very repression has made culture politically relevant—sometimes reinforcing imperial ideology, sometimes subverting it—and charged it with particular urgency. This course takes us inside the paradox, looking at some of the most important works of modern Russian literature, film, philosophy, visual art, music, theater, opera, and ballet in the context of the country’s troubled history. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 135a Russian Short Fictions: Where is Justice in This World?
[ djw hum oc ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian.

Focuses on the great tradition of the short story as practiced by Russian writers and the connection and divisions among them. This genre invites extreme stylistic and narrative experimentation ranging from the comic to the tragic, as well as being a vehicle for striking expressions of complex social, philosophical, and religious themes. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 144b Tolstoy and Dostoevsky: Confronting the Novel
[ hum oc wi ]

Where do Tolstoy and Dostoevsky fit in the theory and history of the novel? Students will engage in close readings of two of the greatest novels of all time: War and Peace and The Brothers Karamazov. We will explore the genesis of each work, its cultural backdrop and critical responses. Usually offered every third year.

RUS 106b Advanced Russian Language through Film
[ dl fl hum oc ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Taught in Russian.

For advanced and heritage students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, listening, and writing. Course activities will focus on discussions of contemporary Russian feature films and documentaries. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 150b Advanced Russian Language through 20th Century Literature
[ dl fl hum oc ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b or the equivalent, or instructor permission. Taught in Russian. Course may be repeated for credit with instructor's permission.

A seminar for continuing students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, reading and writing. Focusing on the close study of Russian literature in the original Russian and the development of Russian oral and written language skills needed for the close reading and discussion of literature. Usually offered every second year.

COML 160a East European Literature and Film: Art and Life in the Throes of History
[ hum ]

All texts, films, and instruction in English. No prerequisites.

Examines major East European films and literary works from the Ukrainian, Polish,  Czech, Romanian, Hungarian, (former) Yugoslavian, Bosnian, and other traditions. With an eye toward the unique historical, political, and ideological currents of the region and its constituent nationalities, we will focus on both artistic expression and engagement with larger issues.  Usually offered every second year.

COML 171a Literary Translation in Theory and in Practice
[ hum ]

Prerequisite: Excellent reading knowledge of any language other than English. Students will be asked to demonstrate proficiency before receiving consent to enroll in the course.

Approaching literary translation from several angles at once, this course combines readings in the history and theory of translation with a practical translation workshop. Students will experience first-hand the challenges of literary translation and, with the help of the theoretical readings, reflect on what the process teaches us about linguistic, literary, and cultural difference. Usually offered every second year.

HIST 147a Russian Empire: Gender, Minorities, and Globalization
[ djw dl oc ss ]

Examines the processes and problems of modernization--state development, economic growth, social change, cultural achievements, and emergence of revolutionary and terrorist movements. Usually offered every year.

HIST 147b Twentieth-Century Russia: Revolution, Nationality, Global Power
[ dl oc ss ]

Russian history from the 1905 revolution to the present day, with particular emphasis on the Revolution of 1917, Stalinism, culture, and the decline and fall of the USSR. Usually offered every second year.

HIST 181b Red Flags/Black Flags: Marxism vs. Anarchism, 1845-1968
[ ss ]

From Marx's first major book in 1845 to the French upheavals of 1968, the history of left-wing politics and ideas. The struggles between Marxist orthodoxy and anarchist-inspired, left Marxist alternatives. Usually offered every third year.

HUM 1a Tragedy: Love and Death in the Creative Imagination
[ hum ]

Enrollment limited to Humanities Fellows.

How do you turn catastrophe into art - and why? This first-year seminar in the humanities addresses such elemental questions, especially those centering on love and death. How does literature catch hold of catastrophic experiences and make them intelligible or even beautiful? Should misery even be beautiful? By exploring the tragic tradition in literature across many eras, cultures, genres, and languages, this course looks for basic patterns. Usually offered every year.

NEJS 141a Gender, Revolution, and the Making of Soviet Jewry
[ hum ]

Explores the vibrant world of Russian Jewry from the late nineteenth century to the present through the lens of gender, revolution, and everyday life. It begins with the cataclysmic wars, pogroms, and revolutions that shook the foundations of the old Pale of Settlement with unprecedented violence. Out of the ashes, the new Bolshevik leaders set out to construct a new socialist world based on the “dictatorship of the proletariat." We will examine Jewish engagement with new Soviet gender norms, revolutionary ideology and violence, and a dizzying array of cultural production through literature, art, film, and primary archival sources. Usually offered every second year.
ChaeRan Freeze

POL 133b Politics of Russia and the Post Communist World
[ ss wi ]

Overview of the politics of Russia and the former Soviet world. Topics include the fall and legacy of communism, trends of democracy and dictatorship, European integration, resurgent nationalism, social and economic patterns throughout the former Soviet Bloc, and Putin's rise and influence both within Russia and abroad. Usually offered every year.

POL 167b Russian Foreign Policy
[ oc ss wi ]

Surveys Russian foreign policy in the contemporary world, with particular attention paid to the deep historical context for its attitudes and goals in international relations. Topics include relations with the larger post-communist region, the Muslim world, its ongoing antagonistic relations with America and the West, the rise of disinformation warfare on the internet, in addition to the distinct Russian perspective on geopolitics. Usually offered every year.

RECS 100a Understanding Russian Culture: Myths and Paradoxes
[ dl hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian. Satisfies the Proseminar requirement for the Russian Studies major.

Russia has given the world renowned cultural luminaries such as Tolstoy and Tchaikovsky. At the same time, the Russian state—in different historical forms—has a long tradition of censoring, imprisoning, or even murdering artists and intellectuals. One scholar suggests that even as the Russian Empire has violently expanded its boundaries, the state has “colonized” its own people. Paradoxically, this very repression has made culture politically relevant—sometimes reinforcing imperial ideology, sometimes subverting it—and charged it with particular urgency. This course takes us inside the paradox, looking at some of the most important works of modern Russian literature, film, philosophy, visual art, music, theater, opera, and ballet in the context of the country’s troubled history. Usually offered every second year.

RUS 29b Russian Language for Russian Speakers
[ dl ]

One additional hour of recitation required.

For students who grew up speaking Russian at home but have received no or minimal formal education in the language. Students will develop or improve their reading skills, acquire the foundations of writing in Russian, and expand their speaking ability through developing attention to linguistic form and dramatically expanding their vocabulary to include complex topics. Learning is enhanced by interactive online learning modules and authentic communicative tasks. Students will also engage in critical thinking about their bilingualism and multiculturalism. Active participation is essential. Usually offered every fall.

RUS 30a Intermediate Russian I
[ dl fl ]

Prerequisite: RUS 10a and RUS 20b or the equivalent. Not intended for Russian-English bilinguals; please contact language program director, Irina Dubinina, with questions about placement. Four class hours and one recitation hour per week.

Students will develop their proficiency in Russian to the intermediate level which will allow them to participate meaningfully in spontaneous spoken or written exchanges and make presentations on a variety of familiar and everyday topics. Students will also continue developing their reading and listening comprehension skills and growing their knowledge of Russian culture. Learning is enhanced by students' participation in a digital story project on a Russian-speaking city of interest. Active participation is essential. Usually offered every fall.

RUS 105a Russia Today: Advanced Language Skills through Contemporary Culture
[ dl fl hum ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Taught in Russian.

For advanced students of Russian language (non-heritage learners) who strive for advanced-level proficiency in all four modalities (listening, reading, speaking and writing). Explores aspects of contemporary Russian society and culture, including such topics as education, social media, religion, gender relations, environment and others. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 106b Advanced Russian Language through Film
[ dl fl hum oc ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent as determined by placement examination. Taught in Russian.

For advanced and heritage students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, listening, and writing. Course activities will focus on discussions of contemporary Russian feature films and documentaries. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 115b Topics in Russian Culture and Society
[ dl fl hum ]

Prerequisite: Advanced Russian language skills.

For heritage and advanced students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, reading and writing. Introduces students to issues central to Russian folklore. Through an analysis of chronicles, icons, epic tales, and folktales, discussions will explore the roots of Russian cultural values and beliefs. Students will examine structures and archetypes in folktales and magic tales. Usually offered every fourth year.

RUS 150b Advanced Russian Language through 20th Century Literature
[ dl fl hum oc ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b or RUS 40b or the equivalent, or instructor permission. Taught in Russian. Course may be repeated for credit with instructor's permission.

A seminar for continuing students of Russian who wish to enhance their proficiency and accuracy in speaking, reading and writing. Focusing on the close study of Russian literature in the original Russian and the development of Russian oral and written language skills needed for the close reading and discussion of literature. Usually offered every second year.

RUS 153a Advanced Russian Language through 19th Century Literature
[ dl fl hum ]

Prerequisite: RUS 39b with a grade of C- or higher, or the equivalent, or instructor permission. Taught in Russian.

An undergraduate seminar for heritage and advanced students of Russian. Focus on the study of 19th-century Russian literature in the original and development of Russian oral and written skills needed for the close reading and discussion of literature. Usually offered every fourth year.

RECS 144b Tolstoy and Dostoevsky: Confronting the Novel
[ hum oc wi ]

Where do Tolstoy and Dostoevsky fit in the theory and history of the novel? Students will engage in close readings of two of the greatest novels of all time: War and Peace and The Brothers Karamazov. We will explore the genesis of each work, its cultural backdrop and critical responses. Usually offered every third year.

RECS/THA 140a Russian Theater: Stanislavsky to Present
[ ca djw hum wi ]

Throughout its history, Russian theatre has tried to communicate truthfully in a mostly repressive society. This course introduces students to the achievements of theatre artists from Stanislavsky through Post-Modernism. We will examine the work of groundbreaking directors like Meyerhold, Vakhtangov, and Lyubimov. We will read and analyze representative works of major modern and contemporary playwrights. The course load consists of readings, discussions, papers and in-class projects. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 100a Understanding Russian Culture: Myths and Paradoxes
[ dl hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian. Satisfies the Proseminar requirement for the Russian Studies major.

Russia has given the world renowned cultural luminaries such as Tolstoy and Tchaikovsky. At the same time, the Russian state—in different historical forms—has a long tradition of censoring, imprisoning, or even murdering artists and intellectuals. One scholar suggests that even as the Russian Empire has violently expanded its boundaries, the state has “colonized” its own people. Paradoxically, this very repression has made culture politically relevant—sometimes reinforcing imperial ideology, sometimes subverting it—and charged it with particular urgency. This course takes us inside the paradox, looking at some of the most important works of modern Russian literature, film, philosophy, visual art, music, theater, opera, and ballet in the context of the country’s troubled history. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 131a The Twentieth-Century Russian Novel
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Students may choose to do readings either in English translation or in Russian.

An introduction to the major novels of the modernist, Soviet, and post-Soviet eras, including the emigration, such as those by Sologub, Bely, Olesha, Bulgakov, Pasternak, Nabokov, Solzhenitsyn, Erofeev, and Pelevin. May also include some short stories. Usually offered every fourth year.

RECS 144b Tolstoy and Dostoevsky: Confronting the Novel
[ hum oc wi ]

Where do Tolstoy and Dostoevsky fit in the theory and history of the novel? Students will engage in close readings of two of the greatest novels of all time: War and Peace and The Brothers Karamazov. We will explore the genesis of each work, its cultural backdrop and critical responses. Usually offered every third year.

RECS 150a Russian and Soviet Cinema
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Readings in English.

Examines the Russian/Soviet cinematic tradition from the silent era to today, with special attention to cultural context and visual elements. Film masterpieces directed by Bauer, Eisenstein, Vertov, Parajanov, Tarkovsky, Mikhalkov, and others. Weekly screenings. Usually offered every second year.

RECS 152a Russian Science Fiction Literature and Film
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Readings in English.

Examines the Russian science fiction tradition in the context of philosophical, historical, and political developments, with attention to topics such as futurism, science and technology, the perfectibility of humanity, the nature of time, the proximity of the unknown, and otherness. Usually offered every third year.

RECS 154a Vladimir Nabokov: Art and Ethics
[ hum ]

Open to all students. Conducted in English. Readings in English.

A concentrated study of Vladimir Nabokov, the most noted Russian author living in emigration and one of the most influential novelists of the twentieth century. Focuses on the major Russian- and English-language novels, with special attention to the interplay within them of Nabokov’s philosophy of art and his views on ethics and morality. Usually offered every third year.

RECS/THA 140a Russian Theater: Stanislavsky to Present
[ ca djw hum wi ]

Throughout its history, Russian theatre has tried to communicate truthfully in a mostly repressive society. This course introduces students to the achievements of theatre artists from Stanislavsky through Post-Modernism. We will examine the work of groundbreaking directors like Meyerhold, Vakhtangov, and Lyubimov. We will read and analyze representative works of major modern and contemporary playwrights. The course load consists of readings, discussions, papers and in-class projects. Usually offered every second year.