Much has been written about Russian culture, which is known for its rich history, centuries-long development, and influence over events and individuals. Russian cultural artifacts are preserved in museums, libraries, and institutions; students of Russian history must explore this nation's culture if they want the entire story. These three books are easy-to-read introductions into the topic of Russian culture.
Natasha's Dance: A Cultural History of Russia
Seeking to be comprehensive, this dense book is a treasure-trove of information. Weaving culture with the history that shaped it (and vice versa), Natasha's Dance covers the time period from the 18th to the 20th century. This book can be used as a reference guide for either cultural or historical studies. In addition, because it covers art, literature, performing arts, popular trends, and much more, it serves as an excellent launchpad for further exploration into Russian culture. Some may find the book too unwieldy to read from cover to cover, but its usefulness as a basic source of information can not be under-emphasized. Written by Orlando Figes, a professor of history, the book is popular enough that it can be found on the shelves of larger bookstores.
Land of the Firebird: The Beauty of Old Russia
Land of the Firebird, written by Susanne Massie (wife of Robert Massie, author of such books as The Romanovs: The Final Chapter), is easy-to-read and somewhat less scholarly than Natasha's Dance. This makes the information given accessible, but the treatment is more-or-less a survey of Russian culture; while high points are touched upon, further reading is required to gain a complete understanding of events. Massie starts her discussion of Russian culture at an earlier date than Figes, explaining the rise of Kiev and Russia's relationship with Byzantium.
The Face of Russia: Anguish Aspiration, And Achievement in Russian Culture
James H. Billington sets politics against the ground of Russian artistic culture and suggests, understandably, that one affected the other. Painting, architecture, literature, music, and film are discussed as representative of distinctive periods in Russian cultural development. From Rublev to Eisenstein, Billington traces significant changes in Russia's history.
These three books illustrate the depth and intricacies of Russian culture that have made it of interest to scholars, historians, writers, artists, and so-called Russophiles. While it is up to the reader to further his or her knowledge with travel, research, observation, and reading, these books will whet the appetite of the curious. They also make excellent gifts and can be found in both new and used condition.
Kerry Kubilius - A graduate of Ohio State University, Kerry has a BA in Russian and a BA in History of Art with a focus on Eastern European art. She also ...
