Bathhouse customs and Gypsy music in 1830's Russia (fwd)

[George Mitrevski]

Can someone pleae reply to this request.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sun, 8 Jun 1997 16:48:41 -0400 (EDT)
From: Asya1012 at aol.com
To: mitrege at mail.auburn.edu
Subject: RE: Bathhouse customs and Gypsy music in 1830's Russia

Dear Dr. Mitrevski:

I realize that this is a strange request, but, well, here it goes.  I am
working as a research consultant for a small, independent film based on
Aleksandr Pushkin's EUGENE ONEGIN.  Unfortunately, some of the information
that I need is difficult to find, at least in the US, and I am not able to
travel to Russia until the autumn.  Hence, after browsing through you web
page, it appears that you might either possess some of the information I
need, or at least point me towards the appropriate resources.  The following
are topics for which I am in need of information:

1.      I need some material regarding Russian bathhouse customs/beliefs.  In EO,
there s a scene in which Tatyana goes to the bathhouse where there are two
places set at a table.  I believe this has to do with a superstition/belief
whereby the young woman is to dream of a man whom she loves and a table is
set and, if she can picture him, he will be hers.  Is this correct?  Is there
any written information, in either Russian or English that describes this
custom?;

2.      I am in need of gypsy music and Russian music of the 1830's.  More
specifically, what kind of music would be in vogue for the ball for Tatyana's
name day celebration?  What are some popular Russian Romances of the time (I
only know ones that became popular later in the century).  What other types
of music were fashionable?

I realize that you have finished classes and must be making plans for your
summer.  Nevertheless, any information you could provide would be greatly
appreciated.  Should you wish to contact me, you may do so either via e-mail,
or you may telephone and/or write me at the following address and telephone:

Johanna Brownell
440 East 75th Street, #4
New York, NY 10021
Telephone: 212.472.5755

I thank you in advance for your consideration and attention to this matter.

Yours sincerely,

Johanna Brownell