The period from Stalin’s death in 1953 to the end of the 1960s marked a crucial epoch in Soviet history. Though not overtly revolutionary, this era produced significant shifts in policies, ideas, language, artistic practices, daily behaviours, and material life. It was also during this time that social, cultural, and intellectual processes in the USSR began to parallel those in the West (and particularly in Europe) as never before.

This volume examines in fascinating detail the various facets of Soviet life during the 1950s and 1960s, a period termed the ‘Thaw.’ Featuring innovative research by historical, literary, and film scholars from across the world, this book helps to answer fundamental questions about the nature and ultimate fortune of the Soviet order – both in its internal dynamics and in its long-term and global perspectives.

Denis Kozlov is an assistant professor in the Department of History and the Department of Russian Studies at Dalhousie University.

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Eleonory Gilburd is an assistant professor in the Department of History and the Department of Russian and Slavic Studies at New York University.

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‘Kozlov and Gilburd have edited a fine new collection of essays on the Thaw era in Soviet history… All of these essays provide readers with a sophisticated understanding of the culture during this era.’

Choice Magazine, vol 51:06:2014

‘The book makes a crucial contribution to scholarly understanding of the Soviet Union after 1953… Kozlov and Gilburd’s introduction alone makes the book a must read…the volume will surely become a standard reference for scholars and students alike.’

Slavonic & East European Review vol 92:04:2014

‘The University of Toronto Press has done a very efficient job of producing a book that is a pleasure to handle…. It must be recommended to undergraduates and graduate students enrolled in Soviet history courses.’

Slavic Review vol 73:04:2014

‘The Thaw is an important contribution to our knowledge about the Soviet 1950s and 1960s, and as such it will be of interest to a broad audience of scholars of Soviet history.’

Left History vol 20:02:2017

‘Kozlov and Gilburd are to be applauded for bringing together these articles; they will enrich historians’ understanding and inspire new work on this period.’

David L. Hoffmann

‘The book sets new standards for understanding the multiple developments during ‘The Thaw’, opens new manifold discussions, and gives the interested readers ideas for further research areas.’

The Russian Review vol 74:01:2015

‘This collection ought to become a go-to source for anyone researching and teaching this dynamic period… It is not only enlightening but also a pleasure to read.’

Cahiers du Monde Russe, vol 55:3-4:2014