Introduction to selected topics in Russian culture from the early
historical period to the present, with emphasis on elements that
have contributed to "cultural literacy" for Russians themselves.
Topics will include (among others) the origins of the Russian people
and language, the earliest East Slavic state and its culture
(religion,architecture, art, and literature); the Moscow period and
its culture;Russian folk traditions; the transformation of culture
by Peter the Great and the rise of gentry culture; Russia as a part
of European culture in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries;
modernist, Soviet, and post-Soviet developments.   Selected readings
in literary and historical texts; visual materials will include
slide and film presentations.

Requirements: (for Intensive Writing):
two tests and final; four papers of six pages minimum for section
(for non-Intensive Writing:  two tests and final; one paper of six
pages minimum.