Material Culture in Russia and the USSR: Things, Values, Identities- eBook

Description

Material Culture in Russia and the USSR (PDF) is an essential compilation that pushes the boundaries of academic discourse on material culture, history, anthropology, and cultural studies focused specifically on Russia and the Soviet Union, spanning from the era of Peter the Great to the contemporary reign of Vladimir Putin. This compelling anthology underscores the significance of material culture within these regions, highlighting how the interplay between private and public spheres has sometimes diverged sharply from patterns observed in more frequently examined Western contexts.

This extensive collection features diverse case studies exploring a myriad of topics, including fashion, alcohol, advertising, cinema, and photography, culminating in a comprehensive survey of how material culture manifests in Russia and the USSR. The text delves into pivotal questions such as: What unique characteristics define Russian and Soviet material culture? What values does it exemplify? Who are the key figures involved in its production? Furthermore, how does it intersect with notions of ‘high culture’ and the broader landscape of consumer culture?

With its formidable range and depth, Material Culture in Russia and the USSR not only enriches the understanding of these regions but also facilitates a dialogue about the significance of objects in shaping cultural identities within a historical context.

Reviews

“Material Culture in Russia and the USSR: Things, Values, Identities is a welcome addition to what is still an underrepresented field, studies of the material culture of Eastern Europe.” ― H-Net

“In his introduction to Material Culture in Russia and the USSR, Graham Roberts not only offers a solid definition of what constitutes material culture but also argues that the 11 articles in this collection bridge the gap between Slavic and material culture studies.” ― Canadian Slavonic Papers

“The ebook is an important contribution to the field, and its strongest chapters contextualize material culture in Russia and the USSR by placing it in a global and transnational perspective, allowing us to identify the particular meanings of objects in a Soviet and Russian setting while linking these objects to worldwide patterns of consumption and exchange.” ― The Russian Review

Enhance your understanding of how material culture can reflect societal values and identities in Russia and the USSR by exploring this invaluable resource. Ideal for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the unique tapestry of cultural heritage, social dynamics, and consumer behaviors in these historically rich regions.