In this course we will examine fundamental issues regarding political, social, cultural life in the modern Russian Empire, autocracy as a political system, national identity at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, poverty & modern industry in a predominantly rural society, political opposition and the revolutionary movement.
Readings (Required): available at bookstores
Nicholas Riasanovsky & Mark Steinberg, A History of Russia
V. Kivelson and J. Neuberger, eds., Picturing Russia:Explorations in Visual Culture
Anna Labzina, Days of a Russian Noblewoman
B. Engel & C. Rosenthal, eds., Five Sisters: Women Against the Tsar
Orlando Figes, A People's Tragedy: A History of the Russian Revolution
Additional required readings will be on-line on our Blackboard site on the "Course Documents" page
Assignments & Grading
Map Exercise - 10%
Short Essays/Participation: 10%
Two In-Class Exams, 20% each = 40%
Take-home Final Exam 40%
Attendance in class is required. In case of absence it is your responsibility to find out about scheduling or other changes. Additional information on assignments will be distributed in class. No make-up exams will be allowed without written documentation for a family or medical emergency. Students who will miss class for religious holidays or other University sanctioned events should contact me in advance to make accommodations.
