REES Proseminar: Nesting (Post-)Colonialisms in Eastern Europe

Undergraduate / Graduate

The theme for 2026 Russian and East European Studies proseminar is nesting (post)-colonialisms. We rethink the East European experience in conversation with postcolonial and decolonial theories. We map the symbolic geographies of European peripheries and, because peripheries are not just passive recipients but also active agents in mobilizing stereotypes, we study how peripheral actors deploy civilizational hierarchies strategically to manipulate structures of power. The proseminar introduces students in Russian and East European Studies to debates and problems in the field through a theme. Tailored to students' interests, it offers a space for them to hone their research, writing and presentation skills as they engage critically with multiple internal and external perspectives on the region. It also exposes them to professional opportunities related to their college studies. Offered annually, the proseminar is required of all REES Majors who matriculated in Autumn 2025, is open to non-majors with instructor's consent, and may be taken at any time during a student's career.