Intertextuality in Russian Discourse

Intertextuality means that texts gain meaning not only through their reference to an external reality, but also by their reference to pre-existing texts. The understanding of Russian texts requires not only knowledge of Russian grammar and vocabulary, but also background knowledge of quotations, clichés and winged words. Modern Russian literature, media, and private communication bristle with quotations from novels and movies, allusions and references to historic events or TV shows. In this course we will try to reproduce the intertextual vocabulary of an average native Russian speaker and learn to recognize unacknowledged quotations in Russian texts. We will read fairy tales, classical and modern Russian literature, watch movies and cartoons, tell jokes and discuss social networks. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of the meaning and underlying themes of Russians texts and will have learned many popular expressions.