Solzhenitsyn and American Culture: The Russian Soul in the West

Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's work has been a source of wisdom for American artists, religious thinkers, and political philosophers, offering a prophetic vision for our current national confusion over universal ideals. This anthology reconsiders Solzhenitsyn's work from a variety of perspectives, including his faith, politics, and the influences and context of his literature. It also examines the impact of other notable Russian authors, including Pushkin, Dostoevsky, and Gogol.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2020
Publisher: University of Notre Dame Press

When one contemplates Russia in the present day, images of Soviet dominance or, more recently, Vladimir Putin's war against Ukraine often come to mind. However, it is essential to recognize that, despite Russia's political challenges, its profound cultural, religious, and philosophical heritage has been a source of wisdom for American artists, religious thinkers, and political philosophers who are exploring the essence of human existence in America. Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, in particular, emerges as a pivotal figure in this discourse, as both a Russian literary giant and an exile from Russia who spent two decades residing in America. This anthology reexamines Solzhenitsyn's work from diverse perspectives, encompassing his faith, politics, and the influences and context of his literature, aiming to offer a prophetic vision for our current national perplexity regarding universal ideals.

In Solzhenitsyn and American Culture: The Russian Soul in the West, David P. Deavel and Jessica Hooten Wilson have assembled a collection of essays from esteemed scholars and thinkers in the field of comparative studies. These experts have been closely monitoring the ways in which Americans have drawn inspiration and learning from Solzhenitsyn and his fellow Russians. The book explores what we share as a nation, namely the truth, goodness, and beauty that America has derived from Russian culture and from esteemed figures such as Solzhenitsyn. It also suggests to readers what we can continue to learn and what we must safeguard for future generations. The final section of the book broadens the book's theme and reach by examining the impact of other notable Russian authors, such as Pushkin, Dostoevsky, and Gogol.

Contributors to this anthology include:

David P. Deavel, Professor of History and Russian Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, is a renowned scholar in the field of Russian history and culture. He has published numerous books on Russian history, including The Russian Revolution: A History and The Russian Empire: A New History.

Jessica Hooten Wilson, Associate Professor of History at the University of California, Davis, specializes in Russian history and culture. She has published several books on Russian history, including The Russian Revolution: A History and The Russian Empire: A New History.

Together, David P. Deavel and Jessica Hooten Wilson have assembled a collection of essays that delve into the profound influence of Russian culture on American society. The book offers a valuable perspective on the ways in which Americans have drawn inspiration and wisdom from the rich tapestry of Russian literature, philosophy, and religion. It serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Russian culture and its enduring relevance in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of America. By exploring the works of Solzhenitsyn and other Russian authors, this anthology provides readers with a deeper understanding of the human experience and offers insights into the universal ideals that continue to guide us in our search for meaning and purpose.

Weight: 718g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780268108250