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Ukrainian Political Development, 2005.
An analysis of foreign influence in the Ukrainian democratic elections.
2,100 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
The relationship between Ukraine and Russia is arguably the most important factor in the future politics of Eastern Europe. Thus, Ukraine serves as a beacon for alternative nation-building strategies in former countries of the Soviet Union. As these countries move towards democratic governments, other influential countries begin to get involved with their election process, such as the United States. This paper shows that the prospects of political stability and the formation of a democratic government are vital issues for Eastern Europe that are being resolved in Ukraine. The election of Viktor Yushchenko, as the President of Ukraine, has become a symbol for the possibility of the establishment of a democracy in Ukraine. The paper, therefore, addresses the question whether the election of Viktor Yushchenko was a product of Ukrainian democracy or whether the United States was directly involved.
From the Paper
"Chossudovsky also provides another possible reason justifying United States involvement in the Ukraine election. The notion that the United States supported the election just to undermine Russia has credence. Vladimir Putin publicly endorsed Viktor Yanukovych, who favored stronger ties with Russia (Calvary Chapel Mission, 2005, p. 10). This alone would give the United States a reason to push for the successful election of the pro-western candidate. The United States hoped that with the election of Yushchenko, the democratic and free-market societies of Russia and Ukraine would overcome their history and become successful neighbors."
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Isaac Babel?s ?The Collected Stories?, 2005.
This paper discusses "The Collected Stories" by Isaac Babel, ranked in the category of Russian short fiction only to Chekhov.
1,520 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Issac Babel's "Collected Stories" include finely chiseled stories about a Jewish intellectual assigned to a military unit of anti-Semitic Cossacks as in "The Red Cavalry" and stories about encounters with grotesque figures in a Jewish ghetto as in the "Odessa Tales". The author points out that, despite the unending conflict of his personal, religious and political life, Babel appears not to rant against the cruelties of the society, which he exposes in his succinct and sparkling narratives; instead, he uses dynamic metaphorical storytelling to demonstrate this conflict. The paper relates that totalitarian states cannot tolerate writers like Babel, who, along with dozens of other Russian writers, was hauled off to the Gulag because they did not satisfying the Bolshevists.
From the Paper
""Lyubka," a massive woman nicknamed "The Cossack," runs a bordello in Odessa where she also deals in contraband goods. The story turns ironically on the reversal of sex roles when Lyubka makes a wily schlemiel the manager of her inn and bawdyhouse because he finds a way to wean her wailing baby when no one else can. He places a sharp comb next to her breast and the baby, after bawling in pain from having his mouth pricked, finally accepts a bottle. Life in the ghetto or among the Cossacks is incongruous and improbable; but Babel's uncanny juxtapositions of cruelty, comedy, and figurative celebration save his short stories from the cloud of fantasy."
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The Future of 'Europe', 2005.
This paper examines the novel "Cafe Europa" by Slovenka Drakulic, and offers insight on the future of Europe as a united entity.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 0 sources, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper uses some of Drakulic's examples of cleavages between Eastern and Western Europe to define the obstacles that stand before a united Europe. It points out that language barriers, currency, nationalism, and distrust are but a few of the aspects that keep Eastern and Western Europe divided, yet many political scientists see a future for Europe in which these cleavages dissolve.
From the Paper
"Through encounters with border police, stories of traveling, hygiene, and personal accounts across Europe, Slavenka Draculic, author of Cafe Europa captures many aspects of the strong social and economic cleavages that continue to divide Eastern and Western Europe. The question provoked by the book, that is, the future for Eastern Europe and its acceptance by the West, is a complex one."
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Turks in Germany, 2005.
Immigration and national identity in the European Union:The case of the Turkish community in Germany.
2,954 words (approx. 11.8 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 87.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the new reality for immigrant population groups in European countries. It looks at how the European Union's open-door policy has allowed for freer movement of immigrant group throughout the continent and discusses how this affects demographics and socialization of these groups. This paper focuses on the Turkish community in Germany.
From the Paper
"The ebb and flow of people across borders has been always been a concern for nation-states and with the creation of the European Union this concern has not stopped or ceased but rather intensified within the community. As nationalism disappears in the wake of European integration replacing it will be a European identity yet to be defined. How these communities have integrated their new neighbors as well as the government's response to the increased social and economic strain is an indicator of times to come."
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Ukraine - E.U. Relations, 2005.
An analysis of the dynamics of relations between the European Union and the Ukraine since its independence.
5,554 words (approx. 22.2 pages), 36 sources, MLA, $ 135.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to analyse the interaction between E.U. and Ukraine since its independence in 1992. The material is collected through review of literature, policy papers as well as personal interviews with policy makers and scholars in Ukraine and Europe. It argues that, given the constellation of factors, the sluggishness of cooperation process between the E.U. and Ukraine was partially justified by the realities of Kuchma regime and the E.U.'s agenda at that time. It also looks at how the election of Victor Yuschenko in December 2004 signifies a new era in mutual relations, which requires much more intensive cooperation on both sides.
Table of Contents
Abstract
Introduction
Common Norms, Values, Political and Socioeconomic Standards
The History of Interaction
Recent Developments
In Lieu of Conclusion
From the Paper
"Border's existence is rarely unchallenged. By the end of 1990s there appeared new lines of division on the continent between an almost united Europe and the rest. After the EU enlargement in May 2004 Europe's political boundaries still do not coincide with its geographic ones and Ukraine is very active in regaining its rightful place in Europe. According to Avery, 'the term "Europe" has not been officially defined. It combines geographical, historical and cultural elements, all of them constitutive of the European identity. The common experience of proximity, values and historical interaction cannot be gathered in a simple formula and should be revised by each new generation. Therefore, the Commission estimates that establishing the frontiers of the European Union, whose limits will be redefined in the next years, is neither possible nor opportune' (Avery, 1992: 11). Said in 1992, these arguments are still valid today."
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Operation Barbarossa, 2005.
This paper discusses Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's code name for Germany's attack on Russia during World War II.
1,410 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Operation Barbarossa was largely the brainchild of Hitler himself; his general staff advised against fighting a war on two fronts, but Hitler, considering himself a political and military genius, did not fear fighting Britain, possibly America, and now Russia, all at the same time. The author points out that, to make it more palatable to both the German population and the rest of the world, Nazi leaders painted Operation Barbarossa as a defensive attack by stating that the Red Army was preparing to attack Germany, thus Germany needed to strike first before the Russians were fully prepared. The paper concludes that the operation failed miserably because of Germany's logistical problems, an underestimation of the Soviet Army's abilities, and the onset of the harsh Russian winter.
From the Paper
"Before initiating Operation Barbarossa, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union were diplomatically on friendly terms, having signed the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact a short time before the German and Soviet invasion of Poland. While appearing on the surface to be a simple treaty of non-aggression, the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact also contained secret protocols for the dividing up of the border-states between the two nations. The pact surprised the world because of Germany and the USSR's opposing ideologies and mutual hostility. But Hitler had long wanted to conquer western Russia to fulfill his goal of eastern expansion. So the pact was simply one of short-term convenience, which the Nazis thought little of breaking."
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Russia's One Party Power since Communism, 2005.
Examining the reasons for one party being in power in Russia for several terms, despite the economic depression that has existed since the fall of Communism and the installment of democracy.
2,119 words (approx. 8.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 66.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the factors that have contributed to the election of the same political party in Russia since the fall of Communism. Russia has been in an economic depression since the fall of the Soviet Union, yet the same party is re-elected through democratic vote. The reasons for this puzzling outcome are discussed in this paper and identified as using democracy to purge the conservative communists of their rank, old elites regaining state control and loyalty of those counting the votes. Each factor is discussed in great detail along with its contribution and impact on the electoral outcome. This paper is ideal for anyone, from a Russian politics expert to a curious novice.
From the Paper
"Mikhail Gorbachev, along with the Soviet leaders was the first to introduce semi competitive elections into the USSR and then later Russia. Although elections are a focal point of a democracy, they were not initiated by Gorbachev for this use. "The goal of these elections was to purge the conservative ranks of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU) from their positions of power within state structures as a way to liberate these state institutions and thereby make them available as instruments by executing Gorbachev's economic reforms" (McFaul and Petrov, 24). The existing powers of the Soviet Union at the time of the introduction of democracy were all communists, who held high political ranks. In order for Gorbachev to implement his reformation of the economy, these political figures needed to be removed from their ranks, otherwise there would be great opposition to the changes planned. When these leaders were removed, the state organizations were free from communist control and could be used in any way that Gorbachev desired."
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Russia and the Great Power Conflict, 2005.
Examines the possibility of war between Russia and the Western powers in the coming future.
4,664 words (approx. 18.7 pages), 35 sources, APA, $ 120.95
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Abstract
As the dragon awakens, the bear, it appears, hibernates. Recently, the flowering of the Red Chinese economy has turned the eyes of Western security wonks eastward. Disquieted by the possibility of a military force built on years of stunning growth rates, American policymakers have sounded increasing alarms about the regional territorial intentions of this new potential hegemony. Whether due to post-Soviet optimism, hyper-power arrogance, or simply inability to hold too many thoughts simultaneously, this paper shows that analysts have drifted away from concerns about Russia as a credible enemy. The paper argues that, despite the obvious decline in Russian military and economic power, it may remain a potential opponent to the West in coming years. In an attempt to understand this possibility, the paper frames Russia today, politically, economically, and militarily, in relation to a variety of contemporary theories on the causes of war. Employing these theories, the paper judges the factors that would seem to make Russia more or less prone to belligerence. Beyond a simple discussion of various hypotheses, the paper sketches some possible scenarios of conflict in the foreseeable future.
From the Paper
"So how does Russia fit into this equation? It is, at least nominally, in a transition from Communism to democracy. Reality though, as Churchill suggested, is opaque. Putin's state is far from liberal, but has maintained many inherent structural characteristics of a democracy. No serious party leader has articulated any political alternative to democracy, and democratic norms remain pervasive in society at large. The most commonly applied term for the Russian case is "managed democracy." What is worrying is that managed democracy is essentially a bargain. In exchange for promises of economic growth and stability, the masses surrender their rights to question the primacy of the regime."
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Lithuania, 2005.
This paper discusses the geography and political history of Lithuania, which changed from being a part of the Soviet Union to being a member of the European Union and NATO.
2,015 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, because of its geographical position between East and West, Lithuania has been destroyed many times by being caught between the Swedes, the French, and the Germans on the one side, and the Russians on the other side. The author points out that, in the 1990s, Lithuania went through a dynamic transition from a centralized economy into a market-driven economy. The goal was to orient the economy towards trade with Western Europe and North America. The paper relates that, in relations with Western Europe and the United States, Lithuania has two main objectives: economic cooperation and attracting Western capital and security guarantees against any threat from Russia.
Table of Contents
Geopolitical Position
General Statistics
Political Culture
Political System
Domestic Policy
Economy
Foreign Relations
From the Paper
"Lithuania is an independent republic. It is a multi-party, parliamentary democracy. The president, who is the head of the state, is elected directly for 5 years. He is also commander in chief overseeing foreign and security policy. The president nominates the prime minister and his cabinet and a number of other top civil servants. The Lithuanian parliament (Seimas) has 141 members that are elected for a 4-year term. 71 of the members are elected in single constituencies, and the other half (70) are elected in the nationwide vote by party lists. To be represented in the Seimas a party must receive at least 5% of the national vote."
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Human Rights Violations, 2005.
Examines and compares human rights violations towards Jews in Nazi Germany and the population of Chechnya.
5,900 words (approx. 23.6 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 140.95
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Abstract
Two great examples of far-reaching human rights violations that have been studied extensively are the treatment of Jews in Nazi Germany, as well as the violations in Chechnya. These two major human rights violations have been viewed quite often throughout the international community. There have been many hours of investigation put into finding and understanding the origins, dimensions, and outcomes of both of these ruthless acts of violence. By comparing the two, this paper provides insight into how these violations first began and all the dimensions associated with the two. It also provides insight into how the human rights movement began and how it has looked to solve these problems.
From the Paper
"The combat between federal forces and Chechen rebels has for the most part ceased over the last few years yet the disappearances, torture, and summary execution of detainees continue. The type of fighting has changed from the classical war and has turned into a "dirty war, where human rights violations and not the conquest or defense of territory are the main goals" (Denber). Criminal investigations into disappearances have been very ineffective and poorly enforced and innocent people continue being severely tortured and killed, and the perpetrators easily get away with it."
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The Cold War, 2004.
This paper argues that the Cold War was the inevitable consequence of the global shift in power, which led to the confrontation between Soviet and American economic interests.
1,645 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the basis for the Cold War began even before World War II; after the war, the balance of power shifted from the crippled countries of Britain, France, and Germany, the United States and Russia emerged as the greatest powers, who were already economic and political opponents. The author points out that the two powers had little reason to cooperate; America viewed Russia as ungrateful for American military and economic aid and had a history of unfriendliness to Russia dating back to its support of attempts to overthrow the new Bolshevik regime earlier that century. The Soviet Union was very insular and concentrated upon Soviet security. The paper relates that, in addition to their economic tensions, the United States and the Soviet Union had irreconcilable ideologies, which pushed them towards war; America believed in the idealistic universalism that American values of liberty and constitutionalism have worldwide applicability.
From the Paper
"I do not agree with Joseph Siracusa's claim that "the character of the Cold War was essentially ideological and political"; I believe it was economically motivated. "The question of foreign economic policy was not the containment of Communism, but rather more directly the extension and expansion on American capitalism according to its new economic power and needs." At the end of the war, in the West, the United States provided economic aid of almost 40 billion dollars between 1944 and 1952...and led a military alliance (NATO), liberal democracy was generally fostered, and capitalist measures were used to achieve growth."
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The Film, "Mother?, 2004.
This paper discusses the Russian film, ?Mother?, released in 1926, directed by Vesvolod Pudovkin, and based on a book by Maxim Gorki, written twenty years earlier.
2,090 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the film, "Mother?, depicts a tough era in the working communist culture of Russia when the rich get richer and the poor get poorer and attempt to drink away their sorrows. The author points out that this film showed that the people were hard-working and made do with what they had. The paper reveals that, in the film, the family did make the ultimate sacrifice, but the viewer gets the impression that it was worthwhile because future generations could live more freely and more equally with the owners and government officials.
From the Paper
"At the bar, the father approaches the bartender and shows him the household iron. He wants to trade this for a glass of vodka. The bartender refuses, and the father is seen raising the iron as if he is going to hit the bartender with it. Meanwhile, there are numerous scenes of the local town people that notice what is going on. A table full of men, obviously planning something sees that the father is a strong man, and entice him not to hit the bartender, rather to come help them with their plans. In the next few scenes, we learn that the next day there will be a major strike. It seems that half of the workers agree with the strike, and half would rather do without it. The father is bribed, with countless drinks of vodka into joining the group of men that are going to keep the strikers from striking."
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Russian Culture in the New Era, 2002.
Describes the ideas of four of Russia's prominent thinkers around the time of the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution: Blok; Lunacharsky; Gershenzon; and Ivanov.
2,100 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the works of four Russian thinkers and shows how their ideas helped to shape the emerging culture and its art. The works examined are "The Intelligentsia and the Revolution" by Aleksandr Aleksandrovich Blok, "The Collapse of Humanism" also by Blok, "Theses of the Art Section of Narkompros and the Central Committee of the Union of Art Workers Concerning Basic Policy in the Field of Art" by Lunacharsky, "Revolution and Art" also by Lunacharsky, and "Correspondence Across A Room" by Vsevolod Ivanov and Mikhail Osipovich Gershenzon.
From the Paper
"In what is perhaps a more in-depth look at the changing values of the revolutionary culture, Ivanov and Gershenzon exchange a series of letters on the subject in Correspondence Across A Room, which is a compilation of their exchanges. Unlike Blok and Lunacharsky, these thinkers are less interested in designating the roles of various groups in the new culture, although they explore similar terrain. Each argues for a sort of "cultural renewal", in the sense that they argue for the continued vitality of the culture, but, excepting Lunacharsky, each of the aforementioned thinkers argues for this. What distinguishes Gershenzon's thinking, however, is that he makes a specific argument for cultural renewal, whereas Ivanov sees the continued vitality of the culture as being "preserved" through cultural memory."
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European International Trade Environment, 2005.
Paper discusses the European trade environment as a result of the expanded European Union.
1,493 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the impact of the European Union on the trade practices and commerce of the member nations. The paper compares the hurdles facing new members and then looks at the impact that entering into this organization has on a country.
From the Paper
"With the onset of the new millennium there is a new greater focus on creating synergies amongst nations that used to be operating in a self-sufficient manner. These countries are facing the facts that in order to continue to create value and wealth, they must explore revenue streams outside their borders. In doing this, they are looking to distant countries that can create environments for growth possibilities. These countries represent areas that need products and services in which the suppliers are abundant. This allows each country to have a greater degree of specialization than ever thought."
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Slobodan Milosevic"s War Crimes Trial, 2004.
A look at Slobodan Milosevic's trial at the Hague and how this trial will change the way the world views and undertakes trials of war criminals.
4,304 words (approx. 17.2 pages), 39 sources, MLA, $ 113.95
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Abstract
The first former head-of-state to be tried for war crimes, Slobodan Milosevic, was a powerful leader in Yugoslavia. He is currently being tried at the Hague as a war criminal. This paper questions how war crimes trials worked in the past and how they will work in the future. The writer points out that by looking at the Milosevic case gives insight into the future of war crimes trials.
I. Introduction
II. Review of the Literature: Questions Surrounding War Crimes Trials
III. The Case of Slobodan Milosevic
IV. Revisiting the War Crimes Trials Questions
V. Implications for the Future
VI. Conclusion
VII. Bibliography
From the Paper
"With the current trial of Slobodan Milosevic taking place at the Hague, war crimes trials have gained renewed interest. War crimes trials of the past look much different than those of today and likely those of the future. Looking at the Milosevic case, predictions can be made regarding the future of war crimes trials and how former heads of state may be tried. As the first former head of state to be tried for war crimes before an international tribunal, Milosevic?s actions and the outcome of the case will set a precedent for all future war crimes trials."
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The Kosovo Conflict, 2004.
Examines the Kosovo conflict and how the United States is and has been involved.
6,860 words (approx. 27.4 pages), 24 sources, MLA, $ 155.95
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Abstract
This essay concentrates on the U.S. involvement in the Kosovo crisis, especially in the aftermath. The focus lies in the new elections, the position of Congress and the President, and the situation between the U.S. and the European Union and NATO in this matter.
1. Introduction
2. Brief Summary of Events
3. Current Developments
4. Momentary Situation in Kosovo
a. Local Elections
b. Problems overshadowing the Elections
5. The Issue of Kosovo's Final Status
6. The International Administrations
a. UNMIK
b. KFOR
7. Institution-building
8. The Economy
9. The Policy of the United States
a. The Administration
b. The United States Congress
10. Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"The Kosovo Conflict has been an issue for the International Community for more than five years. The European Union, the United Nations and the United States have worked hard together to end the conflict, manage the aftermath and establish a new functioning and democratic government with a stable infrastructure. This has been a very difficult task, since the United States felt that Europe did not put enough effort into the reconstruction of Kosovo and 'wrong calls' have been made . This research paper will not deal with the issue of equal distribution of efforts between Europe and the United States, rather will it examine the developments since the end of the conflict and the United States involvement. The main question here is whether Kosovo should become an independent country or have some form of autonomy within Serbia. Further will be examined, if the efforts are successful and whether or not the United States should pursue these efforts. This will occur through an evaluation of the current development and the momentary situation in Kosovo, such as elections and the establishment of government branches. Also, a look will be taken at KFOR and UNMIK operations and their susses on the infrastructure and the economy. Last, but not least, will the policy of the United States be examined, more precisely of the Administrations and Congress. This examination of events will demonstrate the involvement of the United States and its effects. 2. Brief Summary of Events The Kosovo Conflict shocked the whole word. Pictures of violence, genocide and ethnic atrocities circled the globe. Between the years 1998 and 1999, the United States and its NATO allies attempted to put an end to escalating violence between ethnic Albanians guerrillas and Yugoslav / Serb forces in Yugoslavia's Kosovo Region. This resulted in a 78-day NATO bombing campaign against Serbia from March to June of 1999. Nevertheless with success, Yugoslav leader Slobodan Milosevic withdrew his forces from the province in June of 1999. Since that time, the Kosovo has been governed by a U.N. Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), under the terms of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1244 . A NATO-lead peacekeeping force, KFOR, is charged with providing a secure environment. The purpose of the U.N. resolution is to consider Kosovo's final status at an undetermined time after an autonomous government is in place. It seems that almost all ethnic Albanians want independence for Kosovo; nevertheless, the Serb community want it to remain within Serbia. In late 2003, the international community agreed to review progress in Kosovo and consider next steps in determining Kosovo's future status by mid 2005. In May of 2001, UNMIK issued a 'Constitutional Framework' for Kosovo. This framework provides for an elected legislature and an autonomous government with limited powers, but does not deal with Kosovo's final status. Elections for the Kosovo assembly were held on November 17, 2001. About half of eligible Serb voters participated in the election, after being urged to do so by the Yugoslav and Serbian governments. Political wrangling delayed the formation of a government for months, but one was finally approved by the parliament in March 2002. It consists of members of the three leading ethnic Albanian parties, as well as a Serb minister and one from the Serb minority. In 2003, UNMIK completed the process of transferring designated powers to the Kosovo provisional government. The current Bush Administration stated that they support autonomy for Kosovo within Serbia or the Serb-Montenegro union, but do not think independence is a good idea. President Bush has stated that, while the United States is looking to reduce its forces in the Balkans, the United States would only do so in conjunction with its NATO allies. After the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, Administration officials said that U.S. forces in the Balkans could be withdrawn if they were needed for the war on terrorism. The war in Iraq has also stretched the U.S. military's deployment capabilities. The United States has not unilaterally withdrawn its troops, but cuts in KFOR troops strength in the past year have halved U.S. troops levels from about 5,500 to about 2,000 today. In 1999, The United States Congress neither explicitly approved not blocked U.S. participation in NATO air strikes against Serbia, but appropriated funds for the air campaign and the U.S. peacekeeping deployment in Kosovo. In 2000, several Members unsuccessfully attempted to condition the U.S: military deployment in Kosovo on congressional approval and on the implementation of aid pledges made by European countries. Since 1999, Congress has provided funding for reconstruction in Kosovo, but limited U.S. aid to 15% of the total amount pledged by all countries. In 2003 several resolutions were introduced that supported independence for Kosovo."
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Church and Soviet Union, 2001.
A discussion of the persecution of the church within the Soviet Union from 1945-1988.
2,228 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that legal and social discrimination against Christianity and individual Christians was the norm at all levels of society in Russia from 1945-1988. The activity of the KGB and government agents was a key factor during this time and this encapsules their view. The writer looks at the discrimination felt against both Orhtodox and Baptist groups and how the church that did not want to controlled by the state went underground and developed many clandestine activities including publishing activity that alerted the west as to events.
From the Paper
The period prior to the Second World War was a time of great suffering "for the Christians inside the Soviet Union but in the post -war years leading up to Glasnost their was still a tragedy being played out. The Kruschev era brought the beginnings of a new persecution and an attempted destruction of the churches and even after these harsh years there was still much persecution until Gorbachev's reforms. During this time the hierarchies of both the Russian Orthodox Church and the official Baptist body seemed to compromise with the State, whilst others, particularly those not belonging to a registered church protested and stood their ground and often suffered the consequences. Due to the comparative size of the Orthodox Church I will focus on it with some reference to others, particularly Baptists."
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Constructivism and Suprematism in Soviet Art, 2004.
This paper discusses two new art movements established as part of the new communist state in the first two decades of the 20th century in Russia, Constructivism and Suprematism.
1,430 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the Constructivism movement, which relied on geometric shapes and was almost mathematical, and the Suprematism movement, in which art, before all else, is spiritual. Suprematism carried much more symbolism than the Constructivist artwork, which emphasized function. The author describes the work of Alexander Rodchenko, Vladimir Tatlin, El Lissitzky, and Casimir Malevich. The paper summarizes that, despite the fact that political changes during the mid-1900s brought these abstract art movements almost to an end, the impact of these artists on Russia, Eastern Europe, and the West continues to this day. Illustrations.
From the Paper
"Rodchenko asserted that the concept of composition was a relic, because it was mere aesthetics and related to taste and other out-of-date artistic concepts. Instead, he said, composition had to be replaced by principles of construction and organization. ?All new approaches to art arise from technology and engineering and move towards organization and construction.? Construction represented the height of hundreds of years of artistic creation. It was part of the same process that led to Communist Russia. Rodchenko also stressed that a utilitarian element was present in the idea of organization and construction. The artist?s goal was not to create a work of art but rather a utilitarian product and solving technological problems. Such statements polarized the Constructivists and those who were strongly aligned with aesthetic concerns."
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