From Tsarism to Communism: Introduction to Russian History and Culture
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MLAC1055 | Modern Languages and Cultures | 1 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- MLAC1055
- School
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
In the early sixteenth century, Muscovy was a large but precarious state on the fringes of Europe, characterised by absolute monarchy, an official religion, crude economic and administrative systems, disgruntled ethnic minorities and an impoverished peasantry. Four hundred years later, following rapid expansion, enforced westernisation, industrialisation, a world war and a revolution, everything had changed for Russia … or had it? This module will provide an introduction to the forces that have shaped modern Russia, starting with the first tsar, Ivan the Terrible, through the end of the New Economic Policy. In addition to political and social history, there will be a significant focus on culture and the study of primary sources.
Target Students
Available for all students in the Faculty of Arts. Students of RSS degrees have priority.
Classes
- Two 1-hour seminars each week for 23 weeks
- One 1-hour lecture each week for 23 weeks
The School of Cultures, Languages and Area Studies operates an attendance policy. The details of this policy can be found in the student handbook on Workspace and in module handbooks.
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: 1,500 word essay in the Autumn semester.
- 50% Coursework 2: 1500 word essay in the Spring semester.
Assessed in both autumn & spring semest
Educational Aims
This module is designed to provide an introduction to the study of Russian history and culture, and to provide a context for the deeper study Russian culture in its various forms which may be undertaken in the Department later in the course. It also provides a foundation for understanding developments in Russia today, and a preparation for those students of Russian making their first visit to Russia at the end of the year.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding: students will be able to demonstrate understanding of the main issues of pre-twentieth century Russian history and culture (A3);
and the beginning of awareness of the interface between Russian history and culture and their own (A4)
Intellectual skills: ability to analyse critically and effectively aspects of Russian history and culture (B1);
To deal effectively with secondary reading (B2)
To structure a reasoned argument in the light of evidence (B6). Some experience of problem solving in relation to seminar topics will also have been gained (B4).
Professional practical skills: discussive and research skills in English appropriate to a variety of resources
(C3);
Ability to think and write under pressure, and use of note taking and summary skills in relation to lectures, seminar discussion and secondary materials (C4, C5).
Transferable (key) skills: giving seminar presentations and monitoring discussions; participation in discussions; collaborative and group work, communication skills
(D1-3, D7);
Independent research, and responding to deadlines (D4, D5, D6, D7)
These skills are assessed in written form through the seminar write-up and the essay; participation assesses group and teamwork skills as well as preparation and individual research.
Presentation skills are assessed in the overall mark for the seminar.