Tolstoy Vs. Dostoevsky

(4 Credits)

This course examines novels and shorter texts by Lev Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky in the context of Russian history and culture. Additional topics include: modernity and the rise of the novel; philosophy of history; theory and history of the novel; literature and social critique; principles and limits of literary representation. Alongside a selection of novels and contemporaneous critical and theoretical texts, we will discuss contemporary and more current theories of literature, culture, and representation. Readings and discussions in English. Willingness to read a lot and participate in discussion required. No prior background in Russian literature and culture required.