University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: TBC

Situated on the borders of Europe and Asia, Russia has always been an enigma for Western observers and scholars, by turns inspiring admiration as the exotic 'other', and discomfort as the untamed brutish bear. Yet, this conflicting 'sacred/profane' image has been as much a part of intellectual rhetoric in Russia itself, as it has been the cause for divided opinion abroad. As Russian intellectuals thought about their country's cultural (and spiritual) development, past and present, they often did so 'under Western eyes'. Whether critical or indulgent, their views testify to complex inter-relations with European neighbours. With this in mind, we shall explore a number of leitmotifs in Russian intellectual culture, together with the contexts in which these were first elaborated. In addition, we shall identify instances of their recurrence as a 'resource' in late and post-Soviet endeavours to re-articulate the 'authentic' nature of Russian culture.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact:

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 267

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews:

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 60%
Practical examinations : 13%
Coursework: 27%

Personnel