The magical Russian Firebird—with its feathers of pure gold—embodies the creative genius and salvational glory of the Russian performing arts. In this course we will explore Russian ballet, opera, music, theater and poetry, and their place in the culture and history of Russia and the Soviet Union, from the age of Tolstoy to the Putin era, from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake to Pussy Riot, the feminist protest group. In addition to larger themes and movements, we will consider the contexts, histories, meanings—and, in some cases, iconic afterlives—of selected works and their masterful creators.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 25

Prerequisites: None. Not open to students who have taken RAST 322.

Instructor: Tumarkin

Distribution Requirements: ARS - Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video

Typical Periods Offered: Every other year; Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Spring

Notes: This course is also offered at the 300-level as RAST 322.