Event

Reading the Russians - A Three-Part Series

Reading the Russians

What makes Russian Literature so distinctive that great writers like Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Gogol, and Chekhov are referred to as "The Russians"? Why is it that many of the brooding and intense works of Russian literature have the reputation of being depressing when in actuality many of them portray hope, joy and the triumph of the human spirit? In a recent New York Times article, Francine Prose said she, " Could applaud their ability to persuade us that there is such a thing as human nature, that something about the human heart and soul transcends the surface distinctions of nationality, social class and time."

Our new Reading the Russians series will wade past the endless winters and peasants to find the true beauty in one of the world's greatest literary traditions. This three part series will introduce us to Pushkin, Gogol and Chekhov through some of their shorter works. We will start with Pushkin's Eugene Onegin Russia's most famous love story told in verse. This will be followed by Gogol's tales of magic and mystery and Chekhov's impressionist short stories ending the 19th century.

So we go from the start of the Russian novel to the end of that tradition, without actually reading any novels(!). Each of our stories is like a sketch for what was happening in the bigger works and a perfect introduction to the Russians.

Please join Literary Affairs and Professor David MacFadyen for this three part series at the Hotel Bel Air. All of these discussions begin at 10:30am and include a delicious continental breakfast. Space is limited get your tickets today!

APRIL 16 - Eugene Onegin by Alexander Pushkin
MAY 14 - Nevsky Prospekt / The Overcoat by Nikolai Gogol
JUNE 11 - Gooseberries / The Bishop by Anton Chekhov

individual Events: $95
Full Series: $255