This course is an introductory seminar in interdisciplinary approaches
and methods in studying the countries of the former USSR and central
and eastern Europe.  The emphasis is on acquainting students with
examples of scholarly work and debates in the field, and assessing
issues of research methods, approach, and ethics in this area of
study.  The semester readings are divided into units by thematic area,
corresponding roughly to the major disciplines and departments
associated with the Russian and East European Institute, to provide a
survey of the most critical issues and resources in the field.  The
course meets weekly throughout the semester to discuss common
readings.  There will be occasional guest speakers. Participation in
seminar discussions is a course requirement, as is a book review (5-7
pages) and a critical essay (12-15 pages).  Readings will be available
on reserve, and also some books will be ordered for (optional)
purchase.