Whether you want to try something for the first time, or dive deep into your area of study, our courses offer you the opportunity to shine a light on what interests you. 

Please note: The Course Catalog should be used for all official planning. 

RUSS - Russian

RUSS 101: Beginning Russian I

The first course of a three-term sequence. Once students learn the alphabet and pronunciation, they acquire a basis for speaking, understanding, reading, and writing spoken Russian. Cultural information is incorporated throughout the course.
Units: 6

RUSS 102: Beginning Russian II

Continued practice in speaking, reading, writing, and listening comprehension. Cultural information is incorporated throughout the course. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 101 or consent of instructor
Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 101 or consent of instructor

RUSS 191: Directed Study in Russian

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 195: Internship in Russian

An opportunity for students to apply their Russian language skills in business, government, and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. Credit may be given for internships completed during a period of study abroad. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 3
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 201: Intermediate Beginning Russian

Students acquire a wider range of linguistic structures, which enables them to start speaking, reading, and writing on a higher level. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 102 or consent of instructor
Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 102 or consent of instructor

RUSS 211: Intermediate Russian I

Grammar review and introduction of more complex grammatical concepts. Students read some authentic literary texts. Cultural information is presented through texts and audio-visual/computer materials. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 201 or consent of instructor
Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 201 or consent of instructor

RUSS 212: Intermediate Russian II

A continuation of Russian 211. More exposure to literary texts, along with newspaper articles. Video clips continue to improve students’ listening comprehension skills and cultural knowledge. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 211 or consent of instructor
Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 211 or consent of instructor

RUSS 250: Advanced Intermediate Russian

A continuation of Russian 212. More intensive reading, writing, and conversational practice to provide a transition to study abroad. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 212
Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 212

RUSS 260: The Long Novel (in English)

A comparative study of nineteenth century Europoean realism, with readings taken from a variety of national traditions. Authors studied may include Dickens, Flaubert, and Dostoevsky. Collaborative teaching of each text will expose participants to a wide range of critical and pedagogical methods. With instructor approval students may also register for an additional tutorial (3 units) in which we will read and discuss important theoretical works on the history of the novel form. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing
Units: 6
Also listed as English 245
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing

RUSS 281: Topics in Russian Through Nonfiction

This seminar-style course will allow advanced students an opportunity to further develop their proficiency. Materials include memoirs, journalism, and historical texts. Conducted in Russian, with frequent writing and grammar assignments, in-class presentations, and occasional translation exercises. It will prepare students to do more advanced research in Russian, either here at Lawrence or abroad. May be repeated for credit when topic is different.

Topic for Fall 2023: Contemporary Russia
PREREQUISITES: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor TBD

Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor

RUSS 300: Russia's Golden Age: 19th-Century Literature in Translation

The texts studied in this course are thematically unified by their examination of romantic and sexual relationships, many of which are limited by social restrictions. Some works will be studied in conjunction with film versions. No knowledge of Russian required. Offered every other year.
Units: 6

RUSS 304: Slavic Science Fiction

This course examines science fiction works from the Slavic world, with concentration on Russia and the Soviet Union. We will explore how Slavic authors reflected on technological progress, humankind's place in the universe, social and political experiments, etc. Lecture/seminar. Taught in English translation. Russian majors and minors may participate in a two-unit turorial in which discussions and some course readings will be in Russian.
Units: 6

RUSS 305: Repression and Resistance in Soviet and Post-Soviet Literature in Translation

Survey of Soviet and post-Soviet literature from 1920 to the present. Course will explore ways in which writers responded to, helped shape, and reacted against the Soviet system. Works will be set in historical and cultural context. No knowledge of Russian required. Offered every other year.
Units: 6

RUSS 306: Russia on Stage: Three Centuries of Russian Theater

This course introduces students to the rich theatrical tradition of Russia. The readings for the course span over two centuries, starting from the social comedies of the late eighteenth century to the contemporary "New Drama" and documentary theater. The plays are situated within the larger historical and political context of Imperial, Soviet and post-Soviet Russia. Lecture/discussion. Taught in English.
Units: 6
Also listed as Theatre Arts 306

RUSS 310: Russia’s Erotic Utopia

This course examines Russia’s complex debate over the nature of sexuality, decadence, morality and mortality. Themes include the moral nature of procreation, lust, murder, and resurrection. Readings include Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Platonov, and Nabokov, as well as film, opera, paintings, and a television mini series. In English.
Units: 6

RUSS 314: Chekhov (in English)

The course focusses on the work, world, and influence of Anton Chekhov. Topics may include “Chekhov and the Russian Short Story,” “Chekhov and Modern Russian Drama,” “Chekhov on the Silver Screen,” and “Chekhov and the West.” Taught in English. Russian majors and minors may participate in a two-unit tutorial in which discussions and some course readings will be in Russian.
Units: 6

RUSS 315: Topics in Dostoevsky and Tolstoy (in English)

This course explores the works, thought, and impact of Fyodor Dostoevsky and Leo Tolstoy. Possible topics include: Crimes and Punishments, Spirituality and Religion, History and Narrative, In the Writer's Laboratory. Taught in English. Russian majors and minors may participate in a two-unit tutorial in which discussions and some course readings will be in Russian. May be repeated when topic is different.
Units: 6

RUSS 320: Topics in Russian Film (in English)

This course explores facets of the development of Russian film in its historical and cultural context. Topics may include: “The Golden Age of Soviet Film,” “The Cinema of Tarkovsky,” and “Film as Propaganda.” Taught in English. Russian majors and minors may participate in a two-unit tutorial in which discussions and some course readings will be in Russian.

Topic for
This course
Units: 6
Also listed as Film Studies 320

RUSS 323: Topics in Russian History and Culture (in English)

An interdisciplinary course examining the relationship between politics and culture in Russia since the 18th century through the close analysis of a specific historical theme. Emphasis is placed on reading and discussing literary texts, historical primary sources, and, where applicable, watching films. Possible themes include: Power and Culture in the Russian Revolution, 1900-1936; The Soviet 1960s; and The Agony of Populism: Terrorism and Literature in Russia's Nineteenth Century. Not open to students who have previously received, or need to receive credit for HIST 423. (G&C)
Units: 6
Also listed as History 323
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and one course in Russian language, literature, or history

RUSS 325: Russian Folktale: Maidens, Witches, and Spirits of the Russian Folk Tradition (in English)

This course introduces students to the magical world of Russian folktales and mythology. A wide selection of folktales will be interpreted through a range of critical approaches (e.g., structuralism, psychoanalysis, and feminism). Folktale adaptations in literature, film, music, and the arts will provide students with an appreciation of the continuing cultural significance of folk belief and folktales in Russia. Lecture/seminar. Taught in English translation.
Units: 6

RUSS 335: Through the Eyes of Women: Women and Gender in Russian Culture (in English)

An interdisciplinary survey course that examines femininity, womanhood and identity in Imperial, Soviet and Post-Soviet Russia. Materials include works of fiction, non-fiction, and film. No knowledge of Russian required.
Units: 6

RUSS 340: Russian TV Talk

Students watch, analyze, and discuss freshly archived Russian television news. Students will increase knowledge of journalistic vocabulary and reporting styles, and develop an understanding of Russian perspectives on national and international events. May be repeated for credit. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor
Units: 2
Prerequisite: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor

RUSS 354: History of Russian and Soviet Film

This course will introduce the student to the rich and varied tradition of Russian and Soviet cinema from the Pre-Revolutionary period to the present. Works by major filmmakers will be viewed and discussed in the context of the culture, economy, society, and politics of the time. Taught in English. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing
Units: 6
Also listed as History 354, Film Studies 354
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing

RUSS 380: Topics in Russian Through Fiction and Poetry

This course advances skills in reading, understanding, writing, and speaking Russian, with materials from the rich traditions of Russian literary culture. Readings include fiction, plays, and poetry. Conducted in Russian, with frequent writing and grammar assignments, in-class presentations, and occasional translation exercises. May be repeated for credit when topic is different. PREREQUISITES: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor
Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor

RUSS 381: Topics in Russian Through Nonfiction

This seminar-style course will allow advanced students an opportunity to further develop their proficiency. Materials include memoirs, journalism, and historical texts. Conducted in Russian, with frequent writing and grammar assignments, in-class presentations, and occasional translation exercises. It will prepare students to do more advanced research in Russian, either here at Lawrence or abroad. May be repeated for credit when topic is different.

Topic for Fall 2023: Contemporary Russia
PREREQUISITES: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor In this class, we will work on the vocabulary and oral and written skills necessary to discuss current events, politics, and social issues. Due to the current situation, the war in Ukraine and its discussion in Russian-language media will be our main focus. Other topics include: Russia’s political system; elections; protest movement; attitudes to migrants and ethnic tensions; LGBT+ rights and movement; feminism and gender relations. We will read texts and do exercises from the textbook Russian: From Intermediate to Advanced; read articles from the Russian press; and watch contemporary films that touch upon these topics. We will pay special attention to describing current events and problems and expressing and supporting opinions (Advanced level skills).

Units: 6
Prerequisite: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor

RUSS 387: Topics in Russian Through Film

This course will examine topics in Russian film. Topics may include specific genres (e.g., the sad comedy), the work of a director or tradition, films important for a specific historical moment (e.g., The Thaw or World War Two), or films devoted to a specific theme. Students will expand their Russian vocabulary, improve fluency, increase speaking confidence and gain cultural knowledge by viewing Russian films and analyzing the psychology of the characters. Throughout this course, students will be introduced to the practice of reading the filmic text using three structuring lenses: 1) history, 2) formal and generic elements, and 3) film criticism. May be repeated when topic is different.
Units: 6
Also listed as Russian 287
Prerequisite: RUSS 250 or consent of instructor

RUSS 390: Tutorial Studies in Russian

Advanced work, in Russian, arranged and carried out in consultation with the faculty. Topics depend on the student’s interest, the instructor, and the subject. Tutorials are not substitutes for courses offered elsewhere in the curriculum. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 391: Directed Study in Russian

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 395: Internship in Russian

An opportunity for students to apply their Russian language skills in business, government, and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. Credit may be given for internships completed during a period of study abroad. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 3
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 399: Independent Study in Russian

Individualized advanced research carried out in consultation with a faculty member. Students considering an honors project in their senior year should register for an upper-level independent study for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 590: Tutorial Studies in Russian

Advanced work, in Russian, arranged and carried out in consultation with the faculty. Topics depend on the student’s interest, the instructor, and the subject. Tutorials are not substitutes for courses offered elsewhere in the curriculum. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 591: Directed Study in Russian

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 595: Internship in Russian

An opportunity for students to apply their Russian language skills in business, government, and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. Credit may be given for internships completed during a period of study abroad. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 3
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 599: Independent Study in Russian

Individualized advanced research carried out in consultation with a faculty member. Students considering an honors project in their senior year should register for an upper-level independent study for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 650: Senior Seminar

This seminar is for advanced students to finish a senior capstone. Seniors meet with the instructor early in Fall Term to discuss individual projects and plan a research agenda. In the Winter Term seminar, students read and discuss contemporary academic articles to highlight styles of argument. The rest of the seminar involves writing workshops, presentations of individual research and discussions of specific scholarly methods. PREREQUISITES: Declared majors with senior standing
Units: 6
Prerequisite: Declared majors with senior standing

RUSS 690: Tutorial Studies in Russian

Advanced work, in Russian, arranged and carried out in consultation with the faculty. Topics depend on the student’s interest, the instructor, and the subject. Tutorials are not substitutes for courses offered elsewhere in the curriculum. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 691: Directed Study in Russian

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 695: Internship in Russian

An opportunity for students to apply their Russian language skills in business, government, and the non-profit sector on the regional, national, and international levels. Arranged in collaboration with and supervised by a member of the department. Includes discussion, report, and/or portfolio. Advance consultation and application required. Credit may be given for internships completed during a period of study abroad. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 3
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

RUSS 699: Independent Study in Russian

Individualized advanced research carried out in consultation with a faculty member. Students considering an honors project in their senior year should register for an upper-level independent study for one or more terms. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
Units: 1 TO 98
Prerequisite: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.
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