Russian Politics

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BROCHURE

année académique

2025-2026

2026-2027

Titulaire(s) du cours

Aude MERLIN (Coordonnateur)

Crédits ECTS

Langue(s) d'enseignement

anglais

Contenu du cours

The course aims to explore the origins and functioning of the Russian political system, examining both its domestic dynamics and its external relations. It is structured around three main thematic blocs. The first addresses the concept of empire and its historical and sociological influence on Russian governance, as well as its relationship with elites and society. The second focuses on the post-Soviet era, highlighting both ruptures and continuities with the Soviet legacy, along with the key ideological currents and political parties shaping contemporary Russian politics. The third bloc turns to society and social actors, analyzing their role throughout Russian history and in the present day. In addition, the course will consider cultural production—literature, cinema, and the arts—particularly from the 20th and 21st centuries, and its impact on Russian political thought and the country’s relations with its neighbors.

Objectifs (et/ou acquis d'apprentissages spécifiques)

Gain an understanding of the key historical events and concepts that have shaped the Russian political system and continue to influence it today.
Understand the specificities of the Russian empire and how it is situated in the broader European imperial history.
Learn to analyze and critically interpret contemporary news and developments related to Russia.
Develop a critical perspective on Russia’s domestic politics and foreign relations, seen through their historical and social background.
Become familiar with major Russian cultural works (literature, cinema, arts) and how they reflect and respond to their political and social contexts

Méthodes d'enseignement et activités d'apprentissages

The course is mainly open lectures with occasional specialist guests. An active participation from the students is required based on the reading of articles and documents provided in advance by the professor

Autres renseignements

Campus

Solbosch

Evaluation

Méthode(s) d'évaluation

Examen écrit
Examen oral

Examen écrit

Examen oral

2,500-word essay: a reading note or critical analysis of a cultural work of your choice (film, visual arts, performance), engaging with one of the issues discussed in class
Oral examination, to assess the student’s ability to analyze a contemporary issue in Russian politics
Written exam 50% Oral Exam 50%