In February 2022, Russia invaded the independent country of Ukraine and began a long, bloody, destructive war. Part of the pretext for the invasion was that Ukraine ‘had always been part of Russia, had never had an independent history, and should rightfully be part of an Orthodox Christian Russia.’ The stories people tell about history make a difference, in this case a deadly difference.

The history of medieval Rus (a term for the principalities that made up the territories we now call Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus) and of early modern Russia is fascinating and strange. In light of current events, understanding that history takes on new urgency. Should we even include Ukraine and Belarus in a course on Russian history, or is that an act of imperial appropriation?

The course begins the ninth century, when written records begin, and ends with Peter the Great at the beginning of the eighteenth century. We will touch on the major debates in the early history of the region: the Vikings in Russia, Kyivan Rus, conversion to Orthodoxy, the Mongol invasions, the influence of the Orthodox Church, the bloody reign of Ivan the Terrible, imperial expansion in Siberia and Ukraine, and radical changes under Peter the Great. We will read works of literature, examine art and architecture, consider the significance of Russia’s Eurasian expansion, and explore the unique ideas about gender that structured all aspects of life. The class will be run primarily as a discussion seminar, allowing time to grapple with issues. Brief lectures will provide context as needed.

Course Requirements:

1. Midterm (in class)
2. Review of a primary source (3-4 pages)
3. Review of a scholarly monograph (3-4 pages
4. Research paper building on the previous two papers (7-9 pages)
5. Attendance and active participation at all lectures and discussions.
6. Short assignments arising

Intended Audience:

Any interested students willing to grapple with ideas and fascinating material

Class Format:

Lecture/Seminar