Being able to speak a language with a high degree of proficiency depends on much more than having an impressive vocabulary and a firm grasp of grammar. A knowledge of cultural codes, common references and allusions, and other intertextual references shared by most native speakers is essential to achieving a greater understanding of various kinds of discourse and to blending in more easily in the language environment. The aim of the course is thus to introduce students to a number of text-centered cultural phenomena that have found their way into the fabric of everyday speech in Russia and former Soviet republics.

The course attempts to help students expand their knowledge of Russian and understanding of Russian culture by going beyond typical language-class topics and helping them build a thesaurus of culture codes easily recognizable by native Russian speakers. Among other things, students will be introduced to some of the most quotable poems in Russian, popular songs, memorable movie scenes, literary allusions, etc.