Reading Russian Postmodernism: From Late Soviet to Contemporary Era

Russian literature underwent a radical and vibrant transformation during the late twentieth century, challenging traditional narratives and embracing bold new forms of expression. To truly appreciate modern literary culture, one must understand the rise, evolution, and lasting impact of Russian postmodernism. This text-only course guides you through the essential concepts, authors, and texts of modern Russian literature. You will develop a strong foundation in literary analysis, enabling you to read complex contemporary works with confidence and deep critical insight. What you will learn: Understand the historical and cultural origins of postmodernism in the Russian context; Analyze key literary techniques such as intertextuality, irony, and pastiche; Identify the core themes of late-Soviet underground and post-Soviet literature; Explore how postmodernism has transitioned into contemporary movements like metamodernism and digital-era autofiction; Practice close-reading strategies through guided textual analysis exercises. The course begins with foundational definitions of literary postmodernism before exploring key texts, stylistic shifts, and contemporary developments. You will engage with written explanations and practical reading exercises designed to build your analytical skills step-by-step. This course is designed for beginners, literature enthusiasts, and students of cultural studies; no prior background in Russian language or advanced literary theory is required. Start your journey into the rich and complex world of modern Russian literature today.