Spring 2008

RUS 356 • Russian Drama: A Survey-W

Course Description

In this course we will explore a lesser-known side of the Russian classic tradition, the repertoire of the Russian drama from the eighteenth century through the turn of the twentieth. This is a survey course which will stress the plays as texts, but performance practice will also be addressed and film versions will help bring the plays to life whenever possible. A few examples from the worlds of Russian opera and ballet will expand the framework to include music-drama and dance-drama on the Russian stage.

Grading Policy

Essays: 60% Exams: 40% Extra credit for active class participation.

Texts

FonvizinThe Minor, GriboedovWoe from Wit PushkinBoris Godunov, the Little Tragedies LermontovMasquerade GogolThe Inspector General, The Marriage GlinkaA Life for the Tsar (the founding Russian opera) TurgenevA Month in the Country OstrovskyThe Storm, The Poor Bride, The Snow-Maiden MussorgskyKhovanshchina (opera as dissent) PisemskyA Bitter Fate Sukhovo-KobylinThe Death of Tarelkin Tchaikovsky/Petipa story ballet: Swan Lake TolstoyThe Power of Darkness GorkyThe Lower Depths ChekhovUncle Vanya, Three Sisters, The Cherry Orchard BlokThe Rose and the Cross (symbolist drama) Ballet: Stravinsky, Petrushka. MayakovskyThe Bedbug (futurist dystopia)

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