What Every Russian Knows And You Don't

Are you interested in Russian culture? Ever wondered what makes Russians unique and what knowledge they possess? In this article, we will explore some fascinating aspects of Russian life that every Russian knows but you may not.

1. Russian Icons and Orthodox Christianity

Did you know that Russian icons play a significant role in Russian Orthodox Christianity? Icons are sacred paintings portraying religious figures and scenes. They are considered a direct connection between believers and the divine. Every Russian home typically has at least one icon adorning the walls, serving as a symbol of faith and protection.

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What Every Russian Knows (And You Don't)

by Olga Fedina(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	979 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	131 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	28 pages
Item Weight	:	1.92 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.07 x 9 inches

FREE

2. Traditional Russian Cuisine

One cannot talk about Russia without mentioning its mouthwatering cuisine. Russians are proud of their diverse and rich culinary heritage. From traditional dishes like borsch and pelmeni to irresistible desserts like blini and medovik cake, Russian cuisine is known for its hearty flavors and unique ingredients.

3. The Importance of Matryoshka Dolls

Matryoshka dolls, also known as Russian nesting dolls, represent another iconic symbol deeply rooted in Russian culture. These intricately hand-painted wooden dolls are crafted in sets that fit one inside another. Each doll represents a different size, symbolizing the various stages of life. Matryoshka dolls are not only beautiful decorations but also treasured collectibles and popular souvenirs from Russia.

4. Winter Sports and Siberian Weather

Russians embrace their long and harsh winters by engaging in various winter sports. Ice hockey, figure skating, and skiing are immensely popular activities. Traditional Russian winter festivities like troika rides and ice fishing embody the resilience of the Russian spirit in enduring extreme weather conditions.

5. Russian Folklore and Fairy Tales

Russia is renowned for its rich folklore and enchanting fairy tales. Every Russian child grows up captivated by characters like Baba Yaga, the Firebird, and the Snow Maiden. These tales are passed down through generations, preserving the magical essence of Russian storytelling and culture.

6. Slavic Hospitality and Traditions

Russians are renowned for their warm hospitality and traditional customs. When you visit a Russian home, you are greeted with open arms and treated to a feast of homemade dishes and drinks. The famous Russian hospitality creates a sense of unity and strengthens personal connections.

7. Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, and Russian Literature

Russian literature is revered worldwide, thanks to literary giants like Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dostoevsky. Their works, including "War and Peace" and "Crime and Punishment," delve deep into the human psyche and explore complex philosophical questions. Russians pride themselves on their rich literary heritage, and books occupy a central place in their culture.

8. The Art of Russian Ballet

Russian ballet is internationally recognized for its grace, precision, and exquisite performances. Classic ballets like "Swan Lake," "The Nutcracker," and "Sleeping Beauty" continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Russian ballet dancers undergo intensive training from a young age, which allows them to master the art of dance to perfection.

Now that you're aware of some of the fascinating aspects of Russian culture that every Russian knows, you can better appreciate the richness and uniqueness of this incredible country. From religious icons and traditional cuisine to folklore and ballet, Russian culture offers a captivating tapestry of history and traditions.

So, why not explore Russia further and discover more about what every Russian knows but you may not?

Sources:

• https://www.rbth.com/arts/331388-why-russian-icons-so-popular
• https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2014/03/13/13-traditional-russian-foods-you-must-try/
• https://learnrussianlanguage.net/nesting-dolls-russia-cultural-icon
• https://www.rbth.com/history/331433-siberian-winter-traditions
• https://www.rbth.com/arts/history/2016/01/15/how-russia-built-a-winter-tradition-on-thin-ice_559097
• https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2017/11/23/have-you-read-these-russian-fairytales-a59681
• https://www.rbth.com/arts/literature/2017/02/10/tolstoy-dostoevsky-and-why-russian-literature-matters_703364
• https://www.rbth.com/arts/326348-ballet-has-6-things-for-you

What Every Russian Knows (And You Don't)

by Olga Fedina(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	979 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	131 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	28 pages
Item Weight	:	1.92 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.07 x 9 inches

FREE

This book is a collection of 12 essays looking at touchstones of Russian popular culture, mostly from the Soviet period, that continue to resonate through language, images, and ways of seeing the world in Russia today. These include films: The Irony of Fate, Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears, White Sun of the Desert, Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson; a novel: The Twelve Chairs; animated cartoons: Hedgehog in the Mist and The Prostokvashino Three; the writer Mikhail Bulgakov; the singer-songwriter Vladimir Vysotsky; stand-up comedians Mikhail Zhvanetsky and Mikhail Zadornov; and a character from a fairy tale, Yemelya the Simpleton. The subjects of the chapters were selected for their influence on Russian language and thinking, and also because they reflect Russian attitudes and perceptions. The author brings them to life through her own experiences of, and responses to, these modern icons. This book, though invaluable for students of Russian, is for everyone interested in Russian language and culture, and explains why certain references and attitudes continue to permeate everyday life. Olga Fedina grew up in Moscow in the turbulent late-Soviet and immediately post-Soviet years, graduating from the Department of Journalism of Moscow State University. She subsequently lived for a decade in London and is currently based in Valencia, Spain. She sometimes misses her homeland, and this book expresses some of the unique aspects of Russia and the Russians that she always carries with her. Though this book is written in English, it contains some "Language Notes" and individual words in Cyrillic script, which some Kindles may not be able to display, though most will not have any problem.