This module is structured thematically and draws on comparative materials from a range of experiences across Russia, the Soviet successor states and Eastern Europe. The module will examine changes and continuities in socio-cultural identities and everyday lived existence, including ethnic, gender, class and national identities, as well as perceptions of, and attitudes towards, the West and the socialist past. The module will examine changing patterns in cultural identification in Russia and Eastern Europe and explore ethnographic case studies in the region. These themes will be prefaced with historical background and discussed in their empirical, discursive and theoretical dimensions.

On completion of these linked modules the student will be able to:

• employ critically key concepts of western social science to understand empirical realities of Russia and Eastern Europe;
• have a through understanding of the social and cultural dimensions of current political change in Russia and Eastern Europe;
• be aware of the cultural and social differences between Russia and other post-socialist countries;
• have developed generic discussion, presentation and writing skills.