COMP 203 Nineteenth-Century Russian Literature in Translation (Same as Russian 203) (Not offered 2008-2009; to be offered 2009-2010)

RUSS 203 Nineteenth-Century Russian Literature in Translation (Same as Comparative Literature 203) (Not offered 2008-2009; to be offered 2009-2010)
Literature provided the primary medium for political, philosophical, and religious debate in nineteenth-century Russia. It was also one of the major fora through which "Russia" could begin to define itself as a nation, tied to, but distinct from, Western Europe. For a long time, Russian authors had relied quite heavily on foreign literary models for inspiration and direction, and it was only in the early part of the nineteenth century that a specifically "Russian" tradition could be seen to emerge. In addition to its task of introducing major Russian authors and their creative ideas, this course will seek to examine the rise of Russian literature as such, its key movements and their proponents, and the recurring theme of "Russianness" and national identity. We will read works by the major literary figures of the century, including Karamzin, Chaadaev, Pushkin, Gogol, Goncharov, Turgenev, Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Chekhov. All readings will be in English. This course will focus on developing students' ability to analyze literature objectively and to interpret literature in both written and oral arguments.
Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: active class participation, papers, one oral presentation, and a final research project.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference to majors in Russian and Comparative Literature.