Unit information: Introduction to Russian Literature in 2018/19

Unit name	Introduction to Russian Literature
Unit code	RUSS10037
Credit points	20
Level of study	C/4
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Coates
Open unit status	Open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of Russian
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit aims to introduce some major figures and themes in nineteenth- and twentieth-century Russian literature through the study of classic verse and short stories by about eight leading writers. Classes will focus on close analysis of paradigmatic texts as a means of illustrating the more general themes, preoccupations and techniques of the author concerned, while discussion will also place these themes, preoccupations and techniques in the broader context of the development of modern Russian short fiction and poetry and in their socio-historical context.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Successful students will be able to demonstrate:

1. a sound understanding of the history of the development of modern Russian short fiction and poetry, in the context of literary, cultural and social history;

2. familiarity with the themes and approaches of a number of major Russian writers;

3. skills in performing close analysis of verse and prose text;

4. ability to read literary Russian, appropriate to level C;

5. the ability to design and complete a research essay on a topic in Russian literature, making use of appropriate library and digital resources.

Teaching Information

The unit will be taught in a combination of lectures and seminars.

Assessment Information

Summative: 2 x 2000 word essays (50% each)

Formative: Additionally, students will be required to submit a plan, thesis statement and annotated bibliography in advance of writing the essay. This will be assessed formatively.

All elements assess ILOs 1-5.

Reading and References

1. Neil Cornwell (ed.), The Routledge Companion to Russian Literature, New York: Routledge, 2001.
2. Caryl Emerson (ed.), The Cambridge Introduction to Russian Literature, Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2008.
3. Charles A. Moser, The Russian Short Story: A Critical History, Boston: Twayne, 1986.
4. Lyudmila Parts (ed.), The Russian Twentieth-Century Short Story: A Critical Companion, Brighton, MA: Academic Studies Press, 2010.
5. Michael L. O'Toole, Structure, Style and Interpretation in the Russian Short Story, New Haven: Yale University Press, 1982.
6. Michael Wachtel (ed.), The Cambridge Introduction to Russian Poetry, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2004