Russian Civilization
Douglass 213
Tuesdays & Thursdays 3:00-4:15


Course Objectives

The first aim of this course is to introduce the student the cultural context that has accompanied Russia's political history from the earliest days of the Kievan State to current post-Communist Russia.

Beginning with Kiev's Prince Vladimir and his forced acceptance of Christianity as Russia's state religion in 988, the course will examine Russia's peculiar adoptions and adaptations of religious and philosophical beliefs, music, architecture, art, and literature.

Time will be spent exploring the rivalry between the two capitals, Moscow and St. Petersburg. We will also delve into the myth of St. Petersburg as developed since its founding in 1703 by Russia's writers.

Through reading selections of Land of the Firebird and short stories, as well as viewing Russian films, we will begin to view Russia as Russians see it -- vast, extremely diverse, fraught with paradox, and filled with promise.

A second objective is to give training and practice in writing.  We’ll focus on the skill of summarizing, a skill sought after by scholars and business people alike.  Two assignments will focus on the challenge of summarizing an article’s main points.  These skills will be further developed in researching and writing the final project for the course.


Textbooks

Land of the Firebird: The Beauty of Old Russia by Suzanne Massie, ISBN 0-9644184-1-X


Means of Assessment

Assessment will be based on grades earned in attendance, participation in class, written assignments, quizzes, two written midterm exams, and a final project.


The grading scale: 

A    93-100

A-    90-92

B+    87-89

B    83-86

B-    80-82

C+    77-79

C    73-76

C-    70-72

D+    67-69

D    63-66

D-    60-62

F    Below 60


Assessment in terms of percentages will be as follows:

Attendance/participation - 10%

Written homework assignments: answers sheets, jokes and superstitions, recipe card - 10%

Two chapter summaries - 10%

Quizzes (lowest score dropped) - 20%

Two exams (20% each) - 40%

Final research paper - 10%


Attendance and participation

10% of your grade will be devoted to attendance/participation.  It will be impossible to participate if you do not attend.  Therefore, it is imperative that you attend class.  There will be numerous opportunities for you to participate in class - group discussions about readings, films, and short stories.  Speak as often as you can.  Alas, the only thing silence in this class will earn you is a low grade in participation. Bring ideas to class, and share them!  In case of illness, please contact the instructor ahead of time by e-mail.  Attendance will be taken.


Disabilities

If you have a physical or learning disability that may interfere with your preparation or performance in this course, see your instructor.


Contact information

Dr. Jonathan Gray

Office hours:  MW 10:00-11:30

Mariposa Room 2050

jgray@csus.edu