Early Modern Russian Empire

This course offers a broad survey of the political, economic, social, and cultural history in early modern Russia. It spans from the reign of Ivan IV (or Ivan “the Terrible”) to the reign of Paul I. Taking account of Russia's liminal position between East and West, we trace the growth of the Muscovite Tsardom's growth into a vast land empire. Major themes include struggles between traditionalism and westernization, the integration and conquest of non-Russian peoples and territories, and the legitimization and maintenance of autocratic rule. In exploring these themes, students study relations between different subjects of the empire (elites, peasants, and everyone in between), relations between peoples and the natural and built environment in which they lived and toiled, state-church relations, the development of serfdom, and the political and cultural manifestations of power.

Module 1 (7.5HEC). From Ivan IV the Terrible to Peter I the Great (1547–1725). In this module, we focus on the formation of the early Russian imperial state and the beginning of Russian expansion in Europe, in particular the struggle for the Baltic. the reign of the first Russian Tsar the death of the first Russian Emperor, this sub-course examines the Oprichnina under Ivan IV, the Livonian War of 1558–1583, the Time of Troubles and the rise of the Romanov dynasty, the Muscovite kingdom and Russian-Polish wars of the 17th century, and the Great Northern War of 1700–1721.

Module 2 (7.5HEC). From Catherine I to Paul I (1725–1801). Covering the early part of Russia so-called "imperial period," this module focuses on enlightened absolutism, power and gender, imperial expansion into present-day Eastern Europe, and changes in monarchical rule.

Knowledge and understanding:

orally and in writing describe the major events, actors, structural forces in early modern Russia

orally and in writing present different explanatory models of developments in early modern Russia

Competence and skills:

situate Russia within a European context and analyze Russia's relations to the rest of Europe

analyze different sources in relation to early modern Russian history

Judgement and approach:

critically assess different perspectives and theories with respect to the early modern Russian Empire

problematize the historiography of early modern Russia

The course is taught mainly through seminars and lectures.

Examinations include written assignments and active participation in seminars.

If a student who has twice received a failing grade for the same examination component wishes to change examiner ahead of the next examination session, such a request should be made to the department in writing and should be approved by the department unless there are special reasons to the contrary (Chapter 6 Section 22 of the Higher Education Ordinance).

If a student has received a recommendation from the University of Gothenburg for study support for students with disabilities, the examiner may, where it is compatible with the learning outcomes of the course and provided that no unreasonable resources are required, decide to allow the student to sit an adjusted exam or alternative form of assessment.

In the event that a course has ceased or undergone major changes, students are to be guaranteed at least three examination sessions (including the ordinary examination session) over a period of at least one year, but no more than two years after the course has ceased/been changed. The same applies to internships and professional placements (VFU), although this is restricted to just one additional examination session.

To obtain the grade Pass with Distinction (VG), a Pass with Distinction (VG) is needed in both modules. To obtain the grade Pass (G), the students needs at least a Pass (G) in both modules.

The results of and possible changes to the course will be shared with students who participated in the evaluation and students who are starting the course.