Investigate the origins and evolution of the city of St. Petersburg, Russia. How did the city come into existence and progress over time? What are the key attributes and notable landmarks of St. Petersburg?

Explore the primary political movements in Russia during the mid-1800s. Are there any parallels between the political factions that existed at that time and the political parties familiar in America?

Examine the status of serfs (peasants who labored for landowners) in nineteenth-century Russia. Compare the institution of serfdom in Russia to that of slavery in America. What were the major similarities and differences between these two systems?

Study the use of insanity as a legal defense in murder trials. What conditions are typically required for a jury to deem a defendant insane? Why does a defendant's assertion of insanity frequently spark controversy?