Episode Synopsis "Story Traditions with James Spring 2010 Edition Show IV - The Russian Bathhouse and The Tale of the White Cowl"

The Russian bathhouse or Bania is a communal bath, consisting of many individuals at any time. To the average Westerner, this may seem strange, but for the Russian this is a proper bath. It does not merely entail soaping and rinsing, but flogging as well. The water is thrown on stones atop stove (Kamenka) that is so hot that it brings out profuse sweat in the bathers. In addition to that the naked bathers flail each other with a bundle of birth twigs...This episode highlights this unique form of bathing, its meaning, and how it can be interpreted. Daniel Rancour Laferriere argues that the Bania may reveal a masochistic ritual practiced by the Russians. This is addressed in this episode. Lastly this episode concludes with an introduction into early Russian ideology, which not only serves as early forms of prophecy, but also a neccessary form of control, and means of molding a Russian identity. Enjoy!

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