A War of Images: Russian Popular Prints, Wartime Culture, and National Identity, 1812-1945

The lubok—a broadside or poster—played an important role in Russia’s cultural history. Evolving as a medium for communication with a largely illiterate population, the popular prints were adapted to express political propaganda. Stephen Norris examines the use of such prints to stir patriotic fervor during times of war, from Napoleon’s failed attempt at conquering Russia to Hitler’s invasion.

Norris shows how visual images of patriotism and expressions of the Russian spirit chang…