Studies in Literary Theory (481-0-1)

Topic

Socialist Realism

Instructors

Nina Gurianova
847/491-2937
1880 Campus Dr. #3365
Office Hours: Wednesdays 1:00-2:00pm and by appointment

Meeting Info

University Library 3322: Mon 3:30PM - 6:20PM

Overview of class

SOCIALIST REALISM:
STUDIES IN RUSSIAN LITERARY AND CULTURAL CRITICISM

This course focuses on the theory and practice of Socialist Realism dogma in literature and beyond. We will examine Socialist Realism in contrast to the most innovative and experimental forms of modernism and avant-garde visual and literary narratives (from prose and poetry to political posters and commercial advertisements) forged in a crucible of intense political and cultural interaction in Russia and Europe in 1920- 1930-s. We focus on the ways the images and metaphors have been used as carriers of cultural value and ideological meaning, exploring such issues as word and image, gender and nationality, aesthetics and psychology, politics and propaganda. Since the course topic involves such disciplines as visual art, literature, cultural theory, and philosophy, readings include modern and contemporary aesthetic theories (Shklovsky, Gyorgy Lukacs, Boris Groys) and twentieth-century political and ethical philosophy (Gramsci, Ortega-i-Gasset, Walter Benjamin et al.), and psychology (Freud, Edward Bernays).

Evaluation Method

weekly short presentations (5-10 min each on the topics assigned by instructor); one 30 min presentation on the topic of your choice (upon instructor's approval); choice of final written exam (2 essay questions) or final paper, based on your 30 min presentation in class; contributions to discussion, class participation.

PLEASE NOTE: all requirements are subject to modification by the instructor. Any changes will be announced in advance.

Class Materials (Required)

Most of the required secondary sources, additional readings and excerpts will be available as e-files (PDF) through canvas

Books available via Amazon.com, some available online, at JSTOR (free full text) via Northwestern Library

Additional Visual and Audio materials will be available on the Canvas

Class Notes

INCLUSIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: This course strives to be an inclusive and supportive learning community, respecting those of differing backgrounds and beliefs. As a community, we aim to be respectful to everybody in this class, regardless of race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation.
Each student has something of value to contribute, and in that spirit, I encourage everyone to participate. We will read, watch and listen to stories that will challenge your views and tackle difficult and sensitive topics. As we explore this material, we must take care to respect the individual backgrounds, personal identities, and differing intellectual approaches that we each bring to our learning inside and outside the classroom.