Viktor Dmitrievich Huliganov and His Russian Lessons RL101 and RL102

Early in my linguistic endeavors, I came across a man who makes free video lessons of the Russian language. Many of the lessons created by Viktor Dmitrievich Huliganov (pseudonym) are associated with his RL101 and RL102 courses. Clearly RL stands for Russian Language, and the 101 and 102 indicate they are the first two of a probably series of courses he intends to make available to his audience.

In this year of 2009, Viktor, as I understand it, is 42 years of age. Viktor is clearly a man of many talents. He is not limited to one language, but appears to have a mastery of a number of them. In addition, he travels a considerable amount, and so has a degree of worldly-wisdom.

Where Can I Find VDH's Lessons?

RL101 and RL102 can probably most conveniently be found on the website called YouTube. Simply visit www.youtube.com and search for Huliganov Russian and you will find his lessons. You can simply choose to watch them, or you can possess them for yourself. One way to do that (assuming you have a broadband connection) is to open another browser window, and go to http://keepvid.com/

By opening a lesson in YouTube and then copying the URL at the top of the page, and entering it into the KeepVid URL and Download form, you can download the lesson to your computer so you can play the lessons over and over again, thus sharpening your language skills.

Viktor's Lessons: Russian with a Song and a Joke

Note that in many of Viktor's lessons, he includes a joke and a song. This can be fun. Just to alert you, however, please note that not all will appreciate his jokes. I do think you are likely to enjoy his songs, and will not find those offensive (unless you have particularly sensitive ears).

I value the lessons because the world is getting smaller, and it is really a narrow-minded thing to think that everyone should learn English, as if it is the only worthwhile linguistic pursuit. In other lands, people frequently know from three to five languages. These ones demonstrate frequently demonstrate a maturity and a wisdom that those who are masters of only one language fail to reach.

Why Learn a Language?

Among the more important languages to learn, doubtless Russian ranks highly. Russia not only encompasses an amazingly large portion of the earth's surface, it also occupies a prominent place in the scientific and technological community. I honestly think, too, that learning the language of another people imparts an an understanding (at least to a degree) of their culture and lifestyle. This can, in turn, break down barriers and build bridges in their place.

So, while you may find quite a few Russian language resources online, quite a few of which are free, be sure to consider the language lesson videos offered without cost by Viktor Dmitrievich Huliganov!

"Hey, Guy. Keep 'em coming!"