University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

This module builds on knowledge of Russian-language literature and culture acquired at the sub-honours level. It surveys non-Russian and/or multilingual Russophone writers working in diverse geographic and historical contexts, introducing students to a new “world” of Russophone literature each week: Jewish Russian literature in the revolution era; the culture of the Soviet Korean diaspora, Chukchi literature in the thaw era, and much more. It develops a transnational view that includes what is commonly known as “Russian literature,” but also much else, recognizing a multiplicity of distinct cultural traditions while also making room for the discussion and critique of ideological conceptions of a unified tradition and of canonicity. The reading list covers some of the most celebrated Russophone writers (Gogol, Babel) as well as many exciting lesser-known writers (Marko Vovchok, Yuri Rytkheu, James Lloydovich Patterson). Independent reading forms a major element of the module.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass RU2202 or pass RU2204. Entry to Honours Russian

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1.5 seminar (x10 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 15

Guided independent study hours: 130

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework - 100%


Re-assessment: Coursework - 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr H R Stuhr-Rommereim
Module teaching staff: Dr Helen Stuhr-Rommereim
Module coordinator email hrsr1@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop in-depth knowledge of significant writers from the Russian Empire, Soviet Union, Russian Federation, and Post-Soviet States.
• Gain fluency in current critical and decolonial scholarly approaches to the cultural history of the Russian and Soviet Empires.
• Develop skill and confidence reading and analysing literary texts written in Russian.
• Develop presentation skills by preparing a presentation for the class on a relevant topic.
• Develop a detailed argument supported with appropriate and accurately referenced evidence from a primary text and secondary literature.