Fall 2006

RUS 356 • The Russian Novel - W

Course Description

Not all classic Russian novels top 500 pages. Saving these giants for another time, we will explore the wealth of the novel in Russia, from the unconventional beginnings of the tradition to its picturesque disintegration with the approach of modernism and the revolution. One of our novels contains a bomb ticking quietly in a sardine can. In one of them the hero literally blows his opponent away in a duel. There is philosophy, poetry, comedy and apocalypse.

Format: informal lecture and discussion. Emphasis is on the texts themselves, their significance in Russian culture, in human experience and in European literary history.

Grading Policy

Three essays, thought papers rather than research assignments (6 pages each, typewritten), spaced at equal intervals over the term. At least one paper shall be written before the Spring Break. Papers will be read with interest and returned with comments both about the writing and what the writer wanted to say. Papers may be resubmitted or revised on the instructor's recommendation. All written work shall be the students own work prepared without unauthorized assistance. Two examinations.

Essays 60% Examinations 40% Extra credit for active class participation

Texts

Pushkin, The Captain's Daughter Lermontov, A Hero of Our Times Gogol, Dead Souls Turgenev, Fathers and Sons Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment Tolstoy, selected novellas Bely, Petersburg

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