The Major
Students become sophisticated readers of Russia’s cultural traditions through the disciplines of literature, film, cultural studies, history and politics.
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We examine the rebels, deviants, dissidents and loners of Russian literature, and the interchange between art and politics, from the Russian Futurists to Pussy Riot. All of our literature and culture courses are taught in translation.
Department Highlights
Literature Courses
Our literature and culture courses—offered in translation—are part a broad liberal arts tradition.
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Language Instruction
Many students begin Russian language study for the first time at Amherst. Our language courses provide instruction at all levels.
Russian House
At the Russian Culture Theme House in Porter Residence Hall, students speak Russian and participate in cultural and social events. Russian House hosts a Thursday night tea for students to polish their language skills.
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Center for Russian Culture:
We are closely tied with the College’s nationally recognized Center for Russian Culture, which features an archival and rare book collection and a 20,000-volume Russian reference library.
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Whitney Collection of Russian Art
Amherst holds more than 750 works of Russian art, the majority of which date from 1900 to 1950.
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After Amherst
Our majors have gone on to graduate study in Russian literature, comparative literature and international affairs at leading universities, and to law, medical and business schools. A good number have worked or are now working in Russia.
Russian Courses
Current Courses
RUSS 227
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Description
In this course, we will study Dostoevsky’s fiction and journalistic writings, alongside reactions to his work from international thinkers, writers, and filmmakers.
RUSS 255
Imposture: Con-men, Swindlers, and Other Pretenders
Description
This course investigates various figures of imposture in literature—the ways that con-men, swindlers, and pretenders reflect and manipulate the cultural, political, and social dilemmas of their respective periods.
RUSS 401
Advanced Studies in Russian Literature and Culture I
Description
We will read one of the most influential novels of the 20th century Russian literature—"The Master and Margarita," by Mikhail Bulgakov—in its original language.