The Slavic Literature Pod Zuleikha p.1 by Yakhina
Show Notes:
This week, Matt and Cameron tackle the first half of Zuleikha by Guzel Yakhina, following the story of the so-called ‘Pitiful Hen,’ as her farm is collectivized, her husband is killed, and she is sent half-way across the USSR to build her own prison. With a great focus on the integration of pagan folklore and (then) modern Islam and a surprising number of action-filled setpieces, Zuleikha is an absolute joy to read and talk about. Sit back, crack open a home-made berry moonshine, and tune in!
Major themes: Forest spirits, Vestigial pagan folklore, and Dekulakization.
03:00 - Here’s a link to the article that I heavily cited in this episode: Fear and Belief in the USSR’s “Great Terror”: Response to Arrest, 1935-1939.
The music used in this episode was “soviet march,” by Toasted Tomatoes. You can find more of their work on Bandcamp and Youtube.
Buy this book with our affiliate links on Amazon!
Our links: Website | Discord
Socials: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands