This transition began reshaping the preceding social structure and firmly held beliefs of Russian culture as communism began to take root. ... In his novel Cement, Gladkov presents the struggle of finding equality, coping with the brutal history that shaped the minds of Soviet citizens, and rebuilding a social and familial structure that fits within the new framework of communism. ... While the goal of communism remains present in the spirited character of Gleb, the journey of the transition is clearly etched in the brokenness of society. ... The result is that her hardened exterior and newfou...

• Word Count: 3036
• Approx Pages: 12
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

RUSSIAN REVOLUTIONARY AVANT-GARDE The avant-garde way of life prospered in Russia directly following the Revolution of 1917, generating one of the most awe-inspiring art movements of the twentieth century. Assembling an entirely new government, the Bolsheviks gave free reign to the Russian avant-garde to create a new culture and thus a new society through art. For this brief time, the culture of the avant-garde was synonymous with official cultural policy of the Soviets. Its leaders were empowered to establish government-sponsored art schools, and an entire system that espoused some of...

• Word Count: 4641
• Approx Pages: 19
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate