Studying the reflection of the Russian culture in foreign-language literary works as part of the discipline "Theory and Practice of Intercultural Communication"

the article is devoted to the study of the image of Russia, the Russian culture, and the Russians in foreign-language literary works and further use of the data in the discipline "Theory and Practice of Intercultural Communication". It examines various interpretations used by foreign authors, as well as the evolution of the perception of the Russians abroad, analyzes both positive and negative stereotypes and their influence on the formation of the image of Russia in the global consciousness. The article gives the examples of the use of the materials in subject-related training sessions on the discipline. It demonstrates the importance of studying foreign-language works in order to gain a deeper understanding of intercultural dialogue and its impact on the perception of Russia in the world. The Russian culture has a rich history filled with generosity, unique traditions, and events that have captured the attention of the global community. Its multifaceted and profound nature has been reflected not only in the Russian art, but also in the works of foreign artists: from the grandeur of literature to the captivating power of cinema, from the depth of music to the expressiveness of painting. The Russian world with its contradictions and beauty has been studied, interpreted, and artistically explored by foreign creators. This research focuses on the representation of the Russian culture and the Russians in foreign-language works, what stereotypes are mentioned more, how the perception of Russia changes in different historical periods, how the data can be used in the discipline "Theory and Practice of Intercultural Communication". The study is based on the ideas of the formation of national images, stereotyping, intercultural communication, and the reception of fiction. The main research method is the content analysis of the literary texts that reflect Russia, the Russian culture, and the Russians. It also compares the interpretations of the image of Russia in different works to identify some common trends and characteristics of perception. The study demonstrates the evolution of the image of the Russians in Western literature: from romantic ideals to complex and multifaceted representations that reflect both historical truth and the author's vision. In J. Littell's novel "The Benefactress" the Russian people are portrayed in a nuanced and contradictory light, free from clich?s. Through the eyes of a German officer the reader witnesses not only the heroism and resistance of the Russians, but also their humanity, pain, and the horrors of war. The portrayal is far from idealized, but rather realistic, focusing on the struggle for survival during the occupation. The presence of the elements of Soviet ideology highlights its influence on everyday life. In contrast, J. Verne's "Michael Strogov" creates an idealized and romantic portrayal of the Russians, presenting them as strong, welcoming, and loyal defenders of Europe. The protagonist, Mikhail Strogov, embodies the positive stereotypes associated with the perception of Russia in the 19th century. M. Cruz Smith's novel "Gorky Park" takes an intermediate position. It offers a more truthful, albeit generally positive, portrayal of a Soviet man in the character of Arkady Renko. Renko is a patriot who is disillusioned with the system, a fighter against corruption, and a man with his own flaws. Despite the effort towards authenticity achieved through consultations with native speakers, there are still some stereotypes present in Renko's character. These findings can be valuable for further exploration of the Western perspective on Russian culture. The authors also present a set of tasks based on the material within the the discipline "Theory and Practice of Intercultural Communication", aimed at organizing communication of the representatives of different cultures. The study demonstrates the diversity of the images of the Russians and culture in foreign literature, reflecting both romantic idealizations and a critical analysis of social and political realities. The authors, based on their experience and historical context, create multifaceted portraits, from courageous and patriotic heroes to more complex characters facing the difficulties of the Soviet system. Although there are some stereotypes and contradictory interpretations, foreign works promote intercultural dialogue, helping foreign readers to better understand the Russian culture, and Russian speakers – to see its perception abroad. The analysis of the considered works enriches our understanding of both the Russian culture and its perception by the outside world. Solving the problem of organizing communicative interaction of the representatives of different cultures requires the use of certain approaches, methods, and techniques, as well as certain pedagogical skills and abilities. This study allows us to achieve this.

Russian image, foreign-language works, Russian culture, stereotypes, Russian people