Soviet and Post-Soviet Identities

This collection provides a fresh perspective on national identity in post-Soviet Russia. Soviet and Post-Soviet Identities examines cultural influences and historical contexts.

This collection provides an insightful exploration of post-Soviet Russia and Eurasia, delving into the historical context of the Soviet era that has shaped contemporary identities. Soviet and Post-Soviet Identities focuses on the evolution of national identity, particularly how it was perceived during the final decades of Soviet power and how it has been redefined since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. The book highlights the cultural activities that have played a crucial role in addressing these identity questions, including literature, television, cinema, architecture, and exhibitions.

In the wake of the Soviet Union's collapse, identity issues have dominated not only Russian culture but also that of all former Soviet states. This timely anthology examines various cultural flashpoints, from language attitudes to the implications of passport usage. It provides a comprehensive discussion on the definitions of political and cultural nationalism, alongside the myths, institutions, and practices that have shaped and expressed national identity.

By analyzing a diverse range of topics—from post-Soviet experiences of food shortages to governmental attempts at regulating popular religion—Soviet and Post-Soviet Identities offers fresh perspectives on this vital area of global culture. The collection is richly illustrated with numerous photographs, making the results of recent research accessible and engaging for readers interested in understanding the complexities of identity in a post-Soviet context.