Slavonic Studies in America
T HIS essay grew out of an attempt to discover the status of Slavonic studies in America, especially Russian. Curiously enough, although by far the better facilities for Slavonic study are available in the United States, the best periodical material on the subject is to be found in British publications-Tbe Slavonic and East European Review and The London Times Educational Supplement. There are many reasons why Russian should be taught. Approximately one hundred and eighty million people speak Russian in Europe and Asia, while but eighty million use German and sixty million French, the two foremost foreign languages taught in the secondary schools and colleges and universities in America. There can be little question that Russia has a tremendous economic future. The country is developing rapidly. It has grown increasingly important in international affairs, and now bids fair to be the savior of democracy by force of arms-a rather curious fate for the dictatorship of the "proletariat." It has made many valuable contributions in learning and culture. Here is what a British contemporary thought about it as recently as June, 1939, when Russia's fateful r6le as England's partner was not yet a dream: Russian has far more career value than most people realize. Useful for journalist and librarian, it is invaluable in commerce. Industry has given it just place. It is recognized in examinations for the public service. But in the teaching profession Russian has little value and may even prove a hindrance in getting a post. Thus, the crux of the problem is to be found in the attitude of the schools themselves and its effect both on the demand for teachers and the supply of students.'