Russian History
Russian History is a humanities course in the CTY program with no prerequisites. Its course code is RUHI and is offered only at Carlisle.
Course Description
This course is a survey of the history of modern Russia from the time of Peter the Great (1682) to the present. Students explore the old Romanov Empire; Russian political events and revolutions; Russia’s role in the two world wars; and Russian art, music, and literature. Throughout this historical survey, students examine major personalities such as Catherine the Great; czars Alexander I, Alexander II (the Czar Liberator), and Nicholas II; as well as Lenin, Stalin, and Gorbachev from the Soviet era. Special attention is devoted to the implosion of the Soviet Empire and the emergence of a Russia in transition under Yeltsin, Putin, and Medvedev. Students work with primary documents in research assignments, hone their writing skills, and develop their speaking capabilities in daily discussions and final research presentations.
Class
From about 8:45 to 11:45, the RuHi class discusses the previous night's reading. From 1 to 2, the clas does various activities, from geography games, to general discussion, to watching Soviet propaganda films. From 2-3, the class is in the Library either reading the textbook or researching for the final project. From 7-9, study hall is in the library, where the student either research or read the textbook.
FYI
For those of you taking this class:
- You will have a final project. It's an oral report; plan to speak for 15-20 minutes.
- It is suggested that you research from 2-3, and read from 7-9. The sections are long; you will want to read it all.
- Tests are on fridays. They aren't hard, nor graded. so DON'T PANIC.
- DA enjoys poking fun. It's all in good nature. Expect it.
- Enjoy yourself. This class is fun if you do what you are supposed to. Don't be afraid to participate!
- QUIET IN THE STUDY HALL! Nobody likes a loudmouth when they're trying to research.
