The president of the Russian Academy of Education says it might be time to drop Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace,” as well as several of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s most famous works, from the country’s school curriculum.
Lyudmila Verbitskaya, who also serves as the deputy chairperson of the Russian Literature Society, told the Moskva news agency that she wants to replace these readings with more accessible spiritual writings, such as the Bible.
“These are deep philosophical works with serious discussions about different topics,” Verbitskaya said. “A child can’t understand their full depth.”
Addressing what should take the place of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, Verbitskaya raised the need for spiritual education: “I think that the course of the school curriculum should include works of spiritual literature, but we need to decide which exactly. Everyone, I think, should read the Bible. This is spiritual and moral education — it’s [our] moral foundations.”
The Russian Academy of Education is currently debating recommendations to make to the country’s education officials regarding curriculum. Verbitskaya says the academy has yet to finalize its list.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
