This 8 week, semester course will explore the interesting world of modern Russian Literature.  We will begin with early, classical pieces, and trace the development on this literature through the collapse of the Soviet Union.  This course will explore the historical context for each piece within the Russia, as well as the literary features of the writings.  We will read a variety of genres of writing from the most significant Russian writers of the 19th and 20th centuries.  Students will be expected to read outside of class and come to class prepared to discuss their reading.  There will be optional writing assignments each week that students can submit for additional feedback and assessment.  This class is perfect for literary lovers, history lovers, or anyone just curious about Russian history from the end of the tsarist era and into the Soviet era.  Explore the unique worldview of Russia through its literature and culture.

From a former student, "Russian Lit is still one of my favorite classes! Not to mention our AP courses. Your classes really prepared me well for college but also continued developing my critical thinking skills, world view, and love of learning."

Week 1-We will begin week 1 by discussing the historical context of modern Russian literature.  We will discuss some literary terms that will be useful in our discussion each week and practice using these terms with some in class poetry reading.  
Week 2- Eugene Onegin (poem) by Pushkin
Week 3- White Nights by Dosteovsky
Week 4- Fathers and Sons by Turgenev 
Week 5- The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Tolstoy
Week 6- The Cherry Orchard (play) by Chekhov
Week 7-  One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Solzhenitsyn
Week 8-  Oman Ra by Pelevin