Slavic 50: Introduction to Russian/East European/Eurasian Cultures

TT 9:30-11, 219 Dwinelle. Instructor: Darya Kavitskaya.

Units: 3 Satisfies L&S International Studies OR Social & Behavioral Sciences OR Arts & Literature breadth requirement.

Instructor’s email: dkavitskaya@berkeley.edu

Slavic 50 is required for the major track in Russian/East European/Eurasian Cultures.

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the major topics and events of Slavic cultural history, from their pre-historic origins to 21st century issues of identity and socio-politics. Readings will come from a variety of sources including historical chronicles and saints’ lives, fairy tales, poetry, short stories, excerpts from novels, mass media and scholarly articles. In addition, three subtitled films highlighting different aspects and eras of Slavic culture will be screened during the semester.

Class discussion and all readings will be in English. Students with no prior background in Slavic language, literature, or history are welcome and encouraged to enroll.

Texts: to be published at bCourses.

Prerequisites: None.