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Russian Traditions & Culture – Overview

Russian traditions & cultural life is made up of many things, drawing on a rich, fascinating and ancient history, strong ties to tradition and a vastly influential body of Russian art and literature. The Russians are understandably proud of their culture. During the Soviet era, many customs and traditions from Russia’s imperial past were suppressed and life was strictly controlled and regulated by the state.

After Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms in the 1980s, Russian traditions began to reappear and customs, art and education were once again upheld as an important part of the Russian identity. Ingrained the Russian psyche is a great reverence for the endurance of the national culture, despite its many hardships and setbacks. Russians pride themselves on being able to survive where others could not, and patriotic songs are sung with gusto by almost every Russian.

Understandably, there’s a widening cultural gap between the older folk in Russia who lived through the Soviet era and the younger generation who’ve embraced the new, cosmopolitan Russia. Even so, there are traditional Russian values and core beliefs shared on every level of society, including: adoration of children, respect for the elderly, a sense of humour, the importance of friendship, generosity, pride, patriotism, a love of the arts, nostalgia, self-sacrifice, conservatism, caution, collectivism, and to a degree, pessimism and cynicism.

Russian Language

Over 80% of Russia’s estimated population of 150 million speak Russian as their first and only language. Most speakers of a minority language are also bilingual speakers of Russian.

Russians now learn English as a second language at school, and you’ll find many English speakers in Moscow in St Petersburg, especially among the younger generations. Outside of the major cities, meeting fluent English speakers is less common, and you’ll find knowing a few key words and phrases in Russian infinitely useful.

Russian Traditions, Manners & Etiquette

Greetings

The typical Russian greeting is a firm handshake while maintaining direct eye contact. Males will shake a female’s hand a little less firmly. When female friends meet, they kiss on the cheek. A meeting between close male friends often begins with a pat on the back and a hug.