HIST 333: History of Russia

Instructor: Gregory W. Sandford

Prerequisites: Completion of phase four of the all-college writing requirement

Material and skills covered:

Students will examine the entire scope of Russian history from its origins in the 9th century state of Kievan Rus to the post-Soviet period. Special attention will be paid to the central themes and issues and the key individuals who have shaped Russia’s development over the centuries. An important course goal will be to understand the historical and ideological background against which today’s Russia seeks to re-define its place in the modern world. Participants will learn to analyze the various social, cultural, economic, geographic, and other forces influencing historical developments, develop their own interpretation of them, and defend their conclusions both orally and in writing.

Methods used:

Small and large group discussions; brief (1-2 page) written summaries of readings; background lectures, lecture-discussions, and debates; two research papers, oral presentations, occasional films.

Grade determined by:

Combination of papers, tests/exam, class participation, oral presentations, and any assigned homework.

Attendance policy:

Absences for scheduled athletic events or other school activities (field trips, etc.) will be excused with prior notification to the instructor. Repeated unexcused absences will negatively affect class participation grade.

Comments:

Students should come prepared to take a critical but healing approach to a nation whose history remains highly controversial even to itself, and whose future development depends heavily on the lessons it draws now from sometimes bitter experience.