Professional Affiliation

Professor, Savannah College of Art and Design

Wilson Center Project

Defending Russia: Russian History and Pictoral Narratives of the ’Patriot War,’ 1812-1912

Project Summary

Examines the intersection of national identity and culture in Russian artistic representations of the ’Patriot War’ of 1812. Argues that the historical narrative, which began with Napolean’s invasion and ended with his retreat, was inextricably linked to Russia’s search for national identity and helped to form competing definitions of ’Russianess.’ Extolled values that were perceived as inherently Russian: courage, resourcefulness and community. Examines the contradictory nature of Russian national identity.