Описание:This course surveys the complexities and contradictions of contemporary Russia, which today struggles with geography, climate, ethnic and religious diversity, and the legacies of serfdom and official corruption. Course materials include visual media (film, animation, computer graphics), short fiction (fairy tales, classical short works, and post-modern sci-fi), economic reviews, Chechnya reportage, and documentary. Course requirements: short papers aimed at the portfolio, occasional quizzes, final exam. No knowledge of Russian language or Russian studies assumed or required. No prerequisites.