Fall 2005

REE 301 • Intro to Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies

Course Description

This interdisciplinary seminar introduces students to historical and contemporary approaches to the study of Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, with a specific focus on the motivations for and outcomes of social change. Through weekly readings, films, and guest lectures students will gain an understanding of key elements in the regions geography, historical legacy, cultural and literary identity, political development, and socio-economic situation. Throughout the semester, guest lectures from various members of the Department of Slavic and Eurasian Studies will provide students with the opportunity to learn about this important area of the world. Students will become familiar with the variety of course offerings, language training possibilities, and research related to Slavic and Eurasian studies that can be found on the UT campus.

Grading Policy

Grades will be determined by two in-class examinations (each worth 30% of final grade), four one page reaction papers based on course readings or films (20% of grade), and, in place of a final examination, a 5 page essay (20% of grade). Extra credit assignments will be available.

Texts

Course packet, How we survived Communism and Even Laughed (Drakulic), Global Studies: Russia, the Eurasian Republics, and Central/Eastern Europe (Goldman)

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