Click here to see our class offerings for 2001-02. The Department of Russian Studies offers classes in Russian language, literature, and culture. Since Russia plays a crucial role in today's world and makes important contributions in a wide variety of scientific, technical, and humanistic fields, knowledge of its linguistic and cultural backgrounds can prove advantageous in many areas of study. Recent radical shifts in the country have significantly widened opportunities for using Russian in business, law, science, and government. In the language classes emphasis is placed on gaining a thorough grasp of Russian grammar, combined with practical competence in speaking, reading, and writing.
Sections are small and intensive.
Study of Russian literature begins with a general survey intended for first or second-year students, followed by monograph, period, and genre classes. Literature classes are generally offered in both English and Russian in order to give as many students as possible from other disciplines the opportunity to become acquainted with this important part of Russian life. Classes in Russian culture and civilization are intended to introduce students to art, architecture, music, religion, and other areas of Russian life which are necessary to understanding the language and literature. Films, guest speakers, and evenings of Russian poetry are scheduled periodically. The Dalhousie Association of Russian Students organizes a variety of events throughout the year.