Условие:
RUSSIAN FOLK COSTUME
Economic, social and cultural changes in the 18 th-century Russia promoted by Peler I had a great impact on the country's everyday life. This was observed first of all in the strict reglamentation of people's dress. In 1700 a decree was issued on the compulsory wear of the West European costume by all except the peasants and the clergymen. The rules of European fashion became obligatory for the Russian nobility.
European dress was to become a norm for Russian society, a trend that made gradual progress, breaking its way through ages-old folk traditions. And indeed in the first half of the 18 lh century West European fashions, springing from the acknowledged fashion centre in Paris, were already adopted by Russia's privileged classes.
Among peasants the Russian folk costume retained its attributes up to the early 20th century. Prom this point of view the Russian folk costume commands special interest as a national costume. It comprises the traditional forms of peasant dress, the specifics of ornamentation, and manner of wearing it along wilh other original features. The Russian merchant class and petty bourgeoisie adhered to the Russian style of dress throughout the 18th and 19lh cc. finding il difficult to accept European novelties.
Needlework, lace, and ornamental weaving incorporated in the Russian folk costume as well as the costume ensemble proper are all remarkable examples of highly traditional national art
Exercise 1. Answer these questions:
1. Did the rules of European fashion become obligatory in Russia?
2. What was observed in the strict reglamentation of people's dress?.
3. What decree was issued in 1700 ?
4. What can you say about original features of peasant dress?
5. When were West European fashions adopted by Russia's privileged classes?