Study Questions on Von Geldern and Stites, week 3 readings
Before you begin reading the selections for week 3, be sure to read over von Geldern’s introduction to the book (pp. xi-xxvii), which will give you a better idea of what the editors have included in this book and why.
p. 3: Gastev, "We Grow Out of Iron" (1918)
In what ways does this poem reflect the ideal of working class unity, and the idea that the working class was historically destined to take power?
pp. 6-12: The War of Kings (1918)
This pamphlet was designed to appeal to workers and peasants—what about the pamphlet seems aimed towards that audience? Explain.
How does the story depict the causes of the World War? How does it depict the workers and peasants (e.g., comrade Petrushka)?
What reasons for workers and peasants and soldiers to renounce the World War does the story present?
pp. 13-14: Bedny, "Send Off: A Red Army Song" (1918)
Who does this song depict the villagers’ attitude towards the Red Army?
How does it depict the (ideal) soldier’s attitude towards his duty?
If we view songs like this as an effort by the Bolsheviks to create a new system of values in the countryside, then what sorts of values are they trying to introduce, and what values are they in conflict with?
pp. 14-15: Solemn Oath on Induction into the Worker-Peasant Red Army (1918)
Think about this oath, which was a sort of ritual that Trotsky introduced (or reintroduced) into the Red Army. What sorts of idealized values are reflected in this oath? How is a Red Army soldier supposed to think and behave? Who does he serve, and why?
pp. 22-29: Arksy, "For the Cause of the Red Soviets" (1919)
This play was performed for Red Army soldiers, to boost their morale.
How does the play depict the White Army and its soldiers and officers?
How does the play depict the Communists?
How does it depict the attitudes of "traditional" peasants? Of "kulaks"?
What about this play was likely to rally peasant soldiers behind the idea of fighting the Whites?
What about Agafon makes him a heroic type for the Communists?
What likely made this play an effective propaganda tool?
What kinds of values are championed by the play?