The definitions of Slavic studies as a science of languages, literature, folklore, history, material and spiritual culture of Slavic peoples are analyzed. It is emphasized as an internationalized field of scientific research, including such political implications as the ideas of Slavic “unity” and even “brotherhood”, which are constantly tested in the course of history. It is noted that in modern Slavic studies, historical studies are mutually complemented by studies of language and culture, not limiting, but just expanding their ranges, and domestic Slavic studies in terms of the width of coverage and depth of analysis can be compared with oriental studies. Aspects of new approaches to the study of the mentality of Slavic peoples are considered, the phenomenon of birch bark letters is characterized. It is noted that Slavic studies are entrusted with the growing mission of reviving the common memory of a common culture and history, which is realized not only through the reconstruction of the ideas of Slavic unity, but mainly through scientific research of a theoretical and mainly empirical nature.
comparative historical linguistics; Slavic studies; Russian studies; Slavic studies; birch bark letters; All-Russian meetings on Slavic studies; national images; mentality.