Historical memory in Russia

What is the course about?

This one-day course examines how history and memory shape Russia’s national identity, political culture, and global image. We will explore how key historical events—such as the Russian Empire, the Soviet era, World War II (the Great Patriotic War), and the post-Soviet transition—have been remembered, commemorated, and rewritten in different periods.
Through case studies, we will analyse state-sponsored memory projects, the role of monuments and historical sites, and how history is used to justify political decisions. We will also explore how alternative narratives challenge official versions of the past, including the experiences of marginalized groups, dissidents, and opposition movements.

What will we cover?

- The Soviet and Imperial Tsarist Past: How different eras of Russian history are remembered and reshaped
- World War II and the Great Patriotic War: The central role of victory memory in Russia’s national identity
- The Collapse of the Soviet Union: Competing memories of reform, stagnation, and upheaval
- State-Sponsored Memory vs. Historical Debate: How political elites shape history for national unity or control
- The Role of Monuments and Memorials: From Lenin statues to the Yeltsin Centre—what gets remembered and what gets erased
- Repression, Resistance, and Forgotten Histories: Stalin’s purges, the Gulag system, and contemporary efforts to challenge official narratives
- Memory and Contemporary Politics: The use of history in modern Russia’s domestic and foreign policy, including its role in justifying war and territorial claims.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Understand how historical narratives shape Russian national identity and state policies
- Analyse how Soviet, imperial, and wartime histories are remembered and reinterpreted
- Recognize the role of political power in shaping historical memory
- Critically assess the role of monuments, museums, and textbooks in constructing national narratives
- Explore how alternative perspectives challenge official historical interpretations.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable both for newcomers to the subject and for those who have some background knowledge. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. An ability and willingness to explore relevant shared resources will increase what you get out of the course.

However, as with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and the willingness to learn from others.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

This course will be delivered as a study day (morning and afternoon), including a mix of lectures, discussions, and case-study analysis. There is no required work outside of class, but optional reading materials will be provided for further exploration.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional costs, but you may wish to bring pen and paper or a digital equivalent for notetaking.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

HMI40 Historical memory in Ukraine
HMI41 History and memory in the United States of America.