Sochi Olympics as a Reflection of Russian Image
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Boarding School for Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation
Department of Foreign Languages
The 6th Science Conference “Forward to the Future”
Sochi Olympics as a
Reflection of Russian Image
Linguistic research is done by:
Plautina Nina (11th Grade)
MelnikVeronika (11th Grade)
Research advisors:
Mukhortova I.I.
Kovalchuk A.A.
Moscow, 2014
Sochi has always been the main resort in our country which many
tourists tend to visit and enjoy its beaches, sea and landscape. Earlier the
city was associated with summer, many beaches and spas, but now the
resort city is also connected with the world sports. In 2014, thousands of
athletes, journalists and lovers of an active life arrived in the winter city
of Russian South to become a part of world history, to find themselves at
the most important world event - the Winter Olympic Games "Sochi
2014".
2
Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................... 4
I. The Connection of the Olympic Games with the Image of the Country. ........... 8
1.1. The History of the Olympic Games. From Antiquity to the Nowadays. ..... 8
1.2. Sochi Olympic Games 2014 ....................................................................... 11
1.2.1. Russia through the Eyes of Foreigners................................................. 11
1.2.2. Realization of the Russian Image and Symbolism in Sochi Olympic
Games 2014....................................................................................................... 15
II. Olympic Games as a Means of Nations’ Integration into the Globalization
Process ..................................................................................................................... 21
2.1. The English Language as a Means of Global Communication .................. 21
2.2. Globalization Process and Multiculturalism .............................................. 24
2.3. Olympic Village as a Global Village.......................................................... 27
III. Effect – Oriented Part .................................................................................... 28
Conclusion ............................................................................................................... 30
List of References and Literature ............................................................................ 32
Appendix ................................................................................................................. 33
3
Introduction
Relevance of the paper
The image of a country comprises of many elements. Itis formed mainly by international
TV and radio broadcasting, articles in international newspapers and journals, sport
events, political and cultural events. The year of 2014 was declared the Year of
Culture. The man, who in 1896 revived the ancient tradition of competitions and a
half thousand years later organized the first Olympic Games in the new history was
Pierre de Coubertin. He believed that it’s especially important to unite sport and
culture for the Olympic Games’ success. It’s necessary to stop fighting in wars but
to take part in peaceful competitions.
It is not a secret that culture influences the image of a country and plays almost the
leading role in the century of globalization as it is important to unite peoples and
create an image of a country.
In this connection, from the practical point of view, the connection of the country
image and Olympic Games as a cultural event is of a great interest.
Sport will allow to optimize the process of our country integration into global
interaction and to help the students of ―Boarding School for Girls of Ministry of
Defense of Russian Federation‖ to contribute much into finding the fastest ways of
getting acquainted with foreign cultures.
The interconnection of Olympic Games with the culture symbols is out of the
question. Russian image represented through Sochi Olympic Games 2014 allowed
foreigners to look at Russian from a different angle and to destroy stereotypes.
Research Hypothesis is based on our explanation for a set of observations,
connected with the interaction of Russian image and Sochi Olympic Games 2014.
If we give a thorough analysis of Sochi Olympic Games 2014 including the
detailed descriptions of sports competitions, the opening and closing ceremonies,
the symbols and a deep analysis of winter sports for women, we will show Russian
culture and the local colour by means of the specific peculiarities of Sochi Olympic
Games 2014 organization representing the positive image of the country and can
widen our students’ opportunities for going in for winter sports.
The object of the paper is the event of Sochi Olympic Games 2014, the specific
peculiarities of the organization and description of winter sports for women.
4
The subject of the research is determining the influence of the specific
peculiarities of Sochi Olympic Games 2014 organization on forming the positive
image of the country in the world and, as a result, assessing possibilities for
widening sports facilities for the girls of ―Boarding School for Girls of Ministry of
Defense of Russian Federation‖.
The aim of the research workis to give a thorough analysis of Sochi Olympic
Games 2014 as a global event and their connection with the positive Russian image
which contributes to the development of winter sports for the girls of ―Boarding
School for Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖.
The objectives of the research:
determine the interconnection of the country image and Olympic Games;
classify foreigners’ opinions concerning Russia before and after Sochi
Olympic Games by interviewing;
identify the major sports included into Sochi Olympic Games 2014;
determine the ways of representing Russian symbols and culture
peculiarities through Sochi Olympic Games 2014.
assess possibilities for sports facilities for the girls of ―Boarding School for
Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖.
Expected results:
summarizeforeigners’ opinions concerning Russia before and after Sochi
Olympic Games;
represent foreigners’ interview results and their analysis;
determine the ways of representing Russian culture through Sochi Olympic
Games 2014 in the video film;
summarize the major sports in the booklet of methodical
recommendations for the students of ―Boarding School for Girls of
Ministry ofDefense of Russian Federation‖;
assess possibilities for sports facilities for the girls of ―Boarding School for
Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖ as models for
improving the school territory.
5
Interviewees of the research
The study is supposed to include children and teenagers between the ages of 12 to
18 years old from the Boarding School for Girls of Ministry of defense of Russian
Federation and students from foreign schools.
Methods of the research:
1. Studying foreigners’ opinions concerning Russian image before and after
Olympic Games.
2. Watching Sochi Olympic Games 2014.
3. Interviewing foreigners.
4. Researching the ways of representing Russian image through Sochi Olympic
Games 2014.
5. Assessing the interconnection of Russian image and Sochi Olympic Games.
6. Researching the best ways of mastering Winter Olympic sports.
7. Aassessing possibilities for sports facilities for the girls of ―Boarding School
for Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖ for improving the
school territory.
Scientific - practical novelty of the research
For the first time the interconnection of culture and Olympic Games will be
analyzed and as a result a video film and a booklet of recommendations for better
mastering Winter Olympic sports will be offered. This project allowsto
representpossibilities for sports facilities for the girls of ―Boarding School for Girls
of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖ as models for improving the school
territory.
Time research
2013 - 2014 - work with the literature, working out techniques and
recommendations, study of literature.
2014 – presentation of the research work.
Areas of application
Secondary schools.
6
Time of implementation
2014 – working out recommendations of a mastering Winter Olympic
sports by the students of the Boarding School for Girls of Ministry of Defense of
Russian Federation and developing the students’ integration into the process of
globalization due to interconnection of culture and Olympic Games.
The level of implementation
Local.
7
I. The Connection of the Olympic Games with the
Image of the Country.
1.1. The History of the Olympic Games.From Antiquity
to the Nowadays.
According to historical records, the first ancient Olympic Games can be traced
back to 776 BC. They were dedicated to the Olympian gods and were staged on the
ancient plains of Olympia. They continued for nearly 12 centuries, until Emperor
Theodosius decreed in 393 A.D. that all such "pagan cults" be banned.
Olympia is in the western part of the Peloponnese which, according to Greek
mythology, is the island of "Pelops", the founder of the Olympic Games. The
Olympic Games were closely linked to the religious festivals of the cult of Zeus,
but were not an integral part of a rite. Indeed, they had a secular character and
aimed to show the physical qualities and evolution of the performances
accomplished by young people, as well as encouraging good relations between the
cities of Greece. According to specialists, the Olympic Games owed their purity
and importance to religion. The Olympic victor received his first awards
immediately after the competition. Following the announcement of the winner's
name by the herald, a Hellanodikis (Greek judge) would place a palm branch in his
hands, while the spectators cheered and threw flowers to him. Red ribbons were
tied on his head and hands as a mark of victory. The official award ceremony
would take place on the last day of the Games, at the elevated vestibule of the
temple of Zeus. In a loud voice, the herald would announce the name of
theOlympic winner, his father's name, and his homeland. Then, the
Hellanodikisplaced the sacred olive tree wreath, or kotinos, on the winner's head.
8
At the congress, held in June 1894Baron
Pierre de Kuberten suggested to resume the
Olympic Games. In his view, a weak physical
condition of the French soldiers was one of
the reasons for the French defeat in the
Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. Also, he
wanted to overcome national egoism and
make a contribution to the struggle for peace
and international understanding. Symbol of
the rebirth Olympic Games is five bonded
rings symbolizing the union of the five parts
of the world in the Olympic movement.
Emblem is Olympic rings. Flag - white flag
with the Olympic rings. Motto - "Faster,
higher, stronger."
The modern Olympic Games are the leading international sporting event
featuring summer and winter sports competitions wherein thousands of athletes
variously compete. The Olympic Games are considered the world's foremost sports
competition with more than 200 nations participating. The Olympic Games are
held every four years, with the Summer and Winter Games alternating by
occurring every four years but two years apart. Baron Pierre de Coubertin founded
the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1894. The IOC is the governing
body of the Olympic Movement, with the Olympic Charter defining its structure
and authority. The evolution of the Olympic Movement during the 20th and 21st
centuries has caused several changes to the Olympic Games. Among these
adjustments are creating the Winter Games for ice and winter sports, the
Paralympic Games for athletes with a disability, and the Youth Olympic Games for
teenage athletes. The IOC determined the Olympic program, which comprises the
sports to be contested at the Games. Several Olympic rituals and symbols:eg, the
Olympic flag, torch, and opening and closing ceremonies. Over 13,000 athletes
compete at the Summer and Winter Olympic Games in 33 different sports and
nearly 400 events. The first, second and third place finishers in each event receive
Olympic medals: gold, silver, and bronze, respectively. The Games have so grown
that nearly every nation is represented, creating many such challenges as boycotts,
doping, bribery, and acts of terrorism . Every two years the Olympics and its media
exposure provide unknown athletes with the chance to attain national and
sometimes international fame and the host city and country to present themselves
to the world.
9
The traditional rituals of the Games:
Lighting the Olympic flame at the
opening ceremony;
Recitation of one of the greatest athletes
of the country in which there were the
Olympic Games, the Olympic oath on
behalf of all participants in the games;
Utterance oaths about impartial judging;
Awarding the winners of the
competitions;
Raising the national flag and national anthem in honor of the winners.
101.2. Sochi Olympic Games 2014
1.2.1. Russia through the Eyes of Foreigners
The Russians have always been interested in what foreigners have written about
their country and its rulers, people, religion, and customs. But the history is
changing, and we are also changing. We begin to feel differently, we see new life
direction and values, but the eternal questions always remain.Russia is developing
rapidly and has its place in the political arena. Foreigners made up a new view
about us. It’s necessary to form a mutual understanding and friendly relations in
the world. Interest to the country should be cultivated and doneby the media. It’s
necessary to fill information gaps to let people know Russia further the Garden
Ring. Science, social aspects, history, architecture, nature - is not that enough in
our country unique and interesting?
It is not a secret that national stereotypes are running everywhere because people
are first of all concerned about their well-being. Foreigners are scared by the
imaginary ―Russian Bear‖ who might stop fuel supplies in the midst of winter. The
Europeanimagination is also excited by media allegations about "Russian mafia"
and corruption in the Russian ruling mafia-like elite. In their turn, many people in
Russia are more than skeptical about Western ―political correctness‖ and distrust
European multicultural tolerance.One of the most popular stereotypes is Russian
barbarism.Foreigners credited Russian insensitivity to things to which civilized
man is very sensitive - for example, physical violence or restraint of liberty.
According to them, Russian inherent rudeness, propensity for violence, "brutality",
ignorance, bad manners, alcoholism - one of the most versatile ways to turn away
from civilization, and for the Russian, according to the western stereotype - the
normal state. All of these components of the stereotype about Russian "barbarism"
abundantly represented in the press.
Being confident that the myth of the Russian soul is not without basis in reality, it
is most important to highlight something in the nature of the Russian people. The
most characteristic for the Russian people is a mixture of recklessness with
hospitality. In most cases, Russian people are intelligible, talented, but at the same
time having "incredible sloppiness." However, this quality allows us to solve many
problems, not solvable for people with a different mentality. The ability to look at
the problem from an unusual angle, and solve it completely unexpected way this is
purely Russian trait.
11In order to ensure that these stereotypes still exist, we decided to conduct a survey.
So, in September, 2013 92 people from all over the world took part in answering
the questions of the poll in such sites and mobile programs as WhatsApp, VK,
Facebook.
What associations come to your mind when you
hear the word "Russia"?
Cold weather, warm clothes
Politics, Communism, the
Bolsheviks, Stalin, Lenin
7%
9% 27% Vodka, alcohol
10%
Poverty
10%
23%
14% Mafia, crime
Beautiful women
Arts, culture, literature
Pic. 1
Conclusion: In the majority of respondents Russia is associated with cold weather
and warm clothing (27%). Stalin, Lenin and their communist views are less
popular among the British population (23%). Unfortunately, for a large number of
people (14%) Russia is associatedwith alcoholism. Based on our research, poverty
and crime occupy one position (10%) in their view. In addition, a smaller number
of respondents (9% and 7%) with the word "Russia" have such associations as arts,
literature and beautiful women. Possibly, the reason for these results is the lack of
information.
12What place does Russia take in the global
culture among the other countries?
4%
Among the first
7% 27%
15% Not the first, but in the
first half
Not the last, but in the
latter half
47% Among the worst
Difficult to answer
Pic. 2
Conclusion:Generally, we have a positive opinion about the place Russia takes in
the global culture (74%). However, the percentage of people who answer
negatively is still significant (19%). Also it’s necessary to pay attention to people,
who didn’t answer at all. Their presence confirms that people know little about
Russia.
What aspect of Russian life is the most
interesting for you?
Culture
21% 22%
Traveling
6% Politics
8% 18% Science
7% Economics
9% 9%
Sport
Religion
Pic. 3 Nothing
Conclusion: Fortunately, 73% of foreigners want to get more information about
Russia, especially about our culture (22%) and about travelling (18%). However,
21% of foreigners are indifferent to our country and don’t want to get any
information about us. Possibly, it’s because of gloomyRussian’s past and negative
stereotypes about our country.
13What famous Russian people do you know?
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Pic. 4
Conclusion:According to our research, among the famous Russian people in the
first place there are leaders of communism (Stalin 21%, Lenin 16%). So it’s
possible to suggest that this period of our history left a mark in the foreigners’
minds. However, among the aforementioned politicians Gorbachev takes a big
place (16%), because of his significant role in the collapse of the USSR. A smaller
number of respondents remembered modern politicians such as Putin and
Medvedev. On par with well-known politicians, foreigners don’t forget such
persons as the first man in space, Yuri Gagarin (5%), the great Russian composer
Pyotr Tchaikovsky (4%) and writer Leo Tolstoy (4%). Unfortunately, the relatively
high percentage of respondents (10%) occupied by foreigners who could not name
any famous Russians. This is due to the fact that foreigners do not know Russian
culture. Thanks to holding the Olympic Games in Russia, we’ll destroy wrong
stereotypes about our country and provide missing information about our country.
141.2.2. Realization of the Russian Culture and Symbolism in
Sochi Olympic Games 2014
The Attribute of the Olympic Games
The attribute of the Olympic Games is the Olympic logo that defines the individual
style of the Olympics. That style became the base of the decoration of the
Olympics: sports arenas, souvenirs, cars, planes, trains, sports clothes and shoes.
On the map Russia looks like a patchwork quilt: green oceans of forests, glaciers
and snow peaks, blue paintings of lakes and ribbons of rivers. Nationalities and
denominations mixed together, forming a complex language picture.
Not accidentally the visual image of Sochi – 2014 is the Olympic patchwork quilt,
which combines the historical motives and innovative solutions. 16 ornaments of
the famous crafts of Russia (Gzhel, Vologda lace, Khokhloma painting, Zhostovo
painting and Patterns of the Russian calico) bring the national color for the
Olympic style.
In this pattern are the North and the South, emotions and composure, delicacy and
expression. These images express the character of modern Russia; unite different
nationalities living on the territory of our huge country, reflecting the variety of
folk crafts and individuality of their creators.
History of the patchwork quilt
This quilt was a widespread attribute of a Russian peasant's house. Imported cotton
materials were expensive, so families in Russian gathered the remaining pieces to
decorate their modest life. Over the time patchwork technique became an art
enjoyed even the aristocracy. Historians know an interesting fact: the wife of
PeterI, Catherine personally sewed her husband in the present patchwork quilt.
Today patchwork is back in fashion. Not only needlewomen but famous designers
realize their creative ideas using this method.
15The opening ceremony
The opening ceremony of the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi showed viewers
from around the world that Russia is a country with a rich classical culture. Show
became the basis of the history of Russia. Authors managed to avoid many of the
usual Russian stamps: balalaika, hats with earflaps, Cossacks, and bears.
Dreams of Russia
The main idea of the ceremony was the dreams of a little girl who sees Russia and
its history in different periods. A few minutes before the opening ceremony at the
stadium screens Russian alphabet appeared. Each letter symbolized an important
phenomenon, or a name that is associated with Russia. After that, a child's voice
along with the audience began a countdown. After the number "one" the main
character of the ceremony - a little girl named Love appeared.
The first element of the show was the appearance of huge decorations that
symbolize different parts of Russia: Ural with the high birch and horses grazing in
a pasture, Kamchatka with volcanoes and geysers, North Russia with totem stones,
Chukotka with plagues, dogs and deers.
16History of Russia
The second largest part of the ceremony was the excursus to the history of Russia,
which began after the rise of the Russian flag, the anthem of Russia and the parade
of athletes.
Historical background began with a movie in which Russia was reflected
continuity with Greece. The film reflected a gallery of historical figures. The
culmination of the film was the construction of the stadium "Fischt."
After the end of the film the legendary
Troika - one of the most important symbols
of Russia sailed the stadium. On the field
fabulous figures lined up into Chudo-Yudo-
Ryba -Kit - a symbol of the Slavic culture.
Following this, the scene begins the Carnival
celebration that showed the medieval Russia
with ancient churches, boyars and traditional
Russian toys. Domes of the St. Basil's
Cathedral soared into the air and lined up in
the order, as well as the world-famous temple.
Then, the authors presented the history of the Peter’s Russia. Peter's role as a ruler,
opened a window to Europe, is enormous, so it was dedicated to a particular piece
of the show.
This was followed by the flowering of
the Russian nobility, which was
transmitted through the ball of Natasha
Rostova. The ball replaced the troubled
times of change and revolution. That
time was one of the most exciting
chapters of the ceremony: "Suprematist
ballet ".
Huge locomotive accompanied figures in the style of Russian avant-garde, dancers
in red, stylized tractors, planters and other mechanisms emerged at the stadium.
Russian avant-garde was replaced by the construction of the new Moscow and the
new country. There were industrialization, high-rise, Soviet people and dudes.
The show finished with the majestic ceremony of the Olympian gods.
17The closing ceremony
The main theme of the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games in Sochi was
Russian culture through the eyes of Europeans. Italian director Daniele FinziPasca
engaged staging ceremony.―We wanted to take a new fresh look at the Russian
culture, we wanted to change our perspective and to look at the Russian culture
through the eyes of a European, and for that reason we invited one of the most
talented European directors, my friend Daniele FinziPasca,‖ Konstantin Ernst,
creative director, said.
The main characters of the ceremony were Lubov and her friends Yuri and
Valentina, named in honor of the first cosmonauts - Yuri Gagarin and Valentina
Tereshkova. Guys acquainted with Russian culture, which has made massive
contributions to the world’s history.
The ceremony began with the animated works by famous Russian artists. Paintings
by Kazimir Malevich, Wassily Kandinsky, Alexander Dejneka and Marc Chagall
appeared in the air with the musical accompaniment by Yuri Bashmet.
The second part of the show was devoted
to the musical heritage. Internationally
renowned pianist Denis Matsuev
performed fragment of "The second
Piano Concert" by Sergei Rachmaninof
Following his performance stadium
turned into a stage of the Bolshoi Theatre
and the Mariinsky Theatre. Soloists of
these theaters acquaint viewers with the
history of theatrical Russian art with the musical accompaniment from
"Scheherazade" by Nikolai Rimsky -Korsakov. Choreography of this scene
ceremony carried famous director Emil Faski.
Organizers didn’t forget the Russian
literature. Russian writers have made a
huge contribution to the world heritage.
Leo Tolstoy, Alexander Pushkin, Anna
Akhmatova, Marina Tsvetaeva, Anton
Chekhov and Joseph Brodsky - their
names are familiar to everyone on the
planet.
18The final part of Russian culture tour
was a big circus.Circus tent appeared
in a stadium. Acrobats, jugglers and
gymnasts showed real class, not
inferior in scope famous ―Cirque du
Soleil‖.The show, called "Russia in the
reflections" told the audience uneasy
history of Russian classical culture,
showing the world that the value
created by our artists, writers and
composers entered the world cultural
heritage.
Some statements about the Russian culture and Sochi Olympic Games 2014:
Italian director Daniele FinziPasca said: ―The closing ceremony should be
imbued with an optimistic wistfulness, I would say, because this is the end
of a great process. This is when your Olympic Games become part of
history. Some people have triumphed. Some people have been defeated.
Nevertheless they all feel as one.‖
―This is the new face of Russia — our Russia," said Dmitry Chernyshenko,
head of the Sochi organizing committee. He called the games "a moment to
cherish and pass on to the next generations.‖
―Russia is part of us and sometimes we don’t really understand this, we
don’t realize it. We take it for granted. We have no idea how many Russian
creative people have influenced us,‖ Daniele FinziPasca said.
"Russia delivered all what it had promised," said the head of the
International Olympic Committee.
―For these 17 days, Sochi has been the centre of the universe and now it is
time to say goodbye, so this optimistic wistfulness, I think, is the appropriate
intonation for the closing ceremony,‖creative director Konstantin Ernst said.
19In order to ensure that stereotypes about Russia disappeared, we decided to
conduct a survey after holding Sochi Olympic Games. So, in 2014 92 people from
all over the world participated in the survey sites interlanguage communication
(WhatsApp, VK, Facebook).
What associations come to your mind when
you hear the word "Russia"?
Olympic Games
4% 3% Culture
7%
27%
8%
Power
11%
Travelling
24% Cold weather
16%
Beautiful women
Alcohol
Pic. 5 Crimes
Conclusion:According to our research and foreigners’ statements, we can say that
the world opinion about Russia has changed.In the majority of respondents Russia
is associated with Olympic Games (27%) and Russian culture (24%). Also, we
have a positive opinion about Russian power (16%).Thanks to Olympic Games in
Sochi, some foreigners (11%) are interested in travelling to Russia. However,
foreigners will always associate Russia with cold weather. It’s very nice that 7% of
foreigners believe that Russian women are beautiful. In addition, a smaller number
of respondents (4% and 3%) with the word "Russia" have such associations as
alcohol and crime. So, we can say that, thanks to holding the Olympic Games in
Russia, we destroyed wrong stereotypes about our country and provided missing
information about Russia.
20II. Olympic Games as a Means of Nations’
Integration into the Globalization Process
2.1. English Language as a Means of Global Communication
Olympic Games are of a world importance. To communicate with each other we
need to use a universal language. English is a global language and all peoples from
all over the world use English as a secondary means of exchanging their thoughts
and ideas.
Table 1
Top 10 the most spoken languages in Sochi Olympic Games 2014
English 85,10%
Spanish 3,9%
Russian 2,86%
French 1,7%
Italian 1,35%
Japanese 1,12%
Dutch 0,60%
Portuguese 0,53%
Modern English is often called a universal or a global language and is even
sometimes described as the first global lingua franca (a language systematically
used to communicate between persons not sharing a mother tongue). English is
without a doubt the actual universal language, i.e. a historical or constructed
language such as Esperanto, Ido, and Interlingua to be spoken and understood by
all or most of the world’s population.
History
The idea of a universal language is as old as the Biblical story of Babel. The
biblical story of Babel’s fall states that there was once a time of a universal
Adamic language – and then something happened, the confusion of tongues.
The twentieth century has brought radical changes in the global language situation.
After the Second World War the triumphal procession of English in the world has
made it into the first really global language, the language of cross-cultural
communication. The term‖ englishization‖ was introduced, it means «making use
21of the English language as a lingua franca and converting material in the local
language into English in an international corporation or other organization».
Why should the English language have succeeded internationally, while others
have not? The causes of this universality are very known and understandable.
Firstly, English has spread because it has often found itself in the right place and at
the right time. It first began to expand during the 16th century with the powerful
British Empire and was strongly reinforced in the 20th century by USA world
domination in economic, political and military aspects and by the huge influence of
American movies. Secondly, English is one of the simplest natural languages in the
world, it is an easy language to learn, understand and speak. The English language
uses the latin alphabet, the most universal and short one. English grammar is quite
simple too, as compared with most languages.
Nowadays
The last quarter of the twentieth century brought a radical change in a global
linguistic situation. For the first time in the history the earth civilization received a
global language of intercultural communication - English. Therefore all peoples
fromall the world have a need to use English as a secondary means of their cultural
expressions.
At present English is the global language, and now any international
communication is not possible without knowledge of English. Interest in the
language inevitably leads to the interest of the people, speaking on it. In order to
learn how to communicate with other people and, most importantly, get pleasure
from such communication, it is necessary to understand the peculiarities of his
character.The rapid spread of the English language is one of the main phenomena
22of the modern linguistic situation in the world. According to the site «the World of
Esperanto», English is the native language for 500 million people in 12 countries,
and the second language for 600 million people, official or semi-official language
for several million people in 70 countries. Today in our modern society there are
about 1.5 billion people speaking English to at least a basic level. It can be at least
understood almost everywhere among scholars and educated people, as it is a
dominant international language in politicians and business communications,
science, mass media, medicine, aviation, entertainment and the computer world.
English language is getting through comprehension of cultures, the opportunity to
develop cross-cultural communication.
Despite the fact that today, globalization is criticized because of the expulsion of
national events, we should not close our eyes to its undeniable advantages - now
we are open to other cultures and other cultures are open to us. Now, as never
before, we can touch the original sources.
232.2. Globalization Process and Multiculturalism
The 21st century has ushered in a new era in man's ongoing quest for a better life
and a better world. For the first time in history, we can now claim to live in ―One
World.‖ Globalization has removed many of the gaps that have existed between
and among nations. While the physical divide is still present, the impact of the
Information Highway on how we communicate and live in the present day is
simply staggering. Through globalization, cultural exchange is now open and
dynamic.Rapid improvements in information technology have allowed us to
exchange information and communicate almost everywhere, anywhere, and
anytime.
Indeed, globalization has spawned a new age of connectivity in culture, society,
economy, social life, technology, and politics. Globalization, as a general term, is
best understood as the spread of ideas about the environment, democracy, human
rights, and less complicated issues like fashion and fads. The mass marketing of
computers and the wide availability of Internet services have brought many parts
of the world together, as if we are all woven on a single pattern or web of daily
life. Countries today do not just export raw materials or the usual projects. Global
exchange is now taking place as the market of ideas, culture, and beliefs expand
through the use of technology. With globalization the borders between countries
are beginning to fade, culture is mixing and we can observe the growth of
international communication.
24In fact, Olympic Games have demonstrated that they are able not only to breathe
life into individuals’ stories but also to provide a language for historical and
political process that are changing the world: they offer a different sematic which
contrasts the obsolete one usually offered by economics and politics, and which
may even be more effective. High-performance sports, by nature, must be global in
order to make meaningful comparisons. Every athlete’s dream is to stand out
around the world. Hence, the global nature of sports in general and particularly of
the Olympics is beyond any doubt. Global sports are one of the few human
activities where virtually everybody agrees on; that is, in the fundamental spirit
behind it: open competition, open benchmarking, with widely communicated
instantaneous results. From my standpoint, the Olympics are a near-perfect
example of globalization at its best.
Multiculturalism in the modern World and in the Winter Olympic Games in
Sochi are connected. The modern world can be called multicultural due to racial,
cultural and ethnic diversity. Through the process of globalization modern society
has become a mixture of different nations and cultures. Thanks to globalization we
can enjoy foreign goods, food, music, ideas, technologies and practices.
Multiculturalism supports the ideals of a democratic society, in which every person
is free and equal in dignity and rights. It leads to understanding, friendship and
respect among racial and ethnic groups. All people are equal which enables them
to participate fully in the social, cultural, economic and political life irrespective of
their race, religion, colour of skin or origin. Today, behind many social and
political conflicts there is a problem of cultural differences. That’s why we need to
create a harmonious society where every member enjoys equal rights.
25Olympic Games can help us to reach peace and harmony of all nations. In 2000 the
Millennium Declaration of UN calls all countries upon to observe the ―Olympic
armistice‖ - to support the International Olympic Committee in its efforts to
promote peace and human understanding through the sport. Winter Olympic
Games in Sochi helped to build bridges between communities; Olympic Games
were the pledge of peace, understanding and harmony. Olympic Games encourage
people from different countries to interact and to share their cultural heritage.
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach focused on how the
athletes have promoted unity throughout the world. "By living together under one
roof, you have sent a message from Sochi. The message is of a society of peace,
tolerance and respect," he said.
Olympic Games are the games not for one city or region - there are the games of
all multinational countries! Connecting power of the Olympic movement is
reflected in the Image of the Games in Sochi. We would like to emphasize that the
main and permanent aim of the Olympic Games in Sochi is not only a battle and
victory, but the unification of people of all nationalities, religions, and people from
different corners of the world.
262.3. Olympic Village as a Global Village
One of the main concerns of the organizers of the Olympic Games is the creation
of the Olympic Village. Athletes of different nationalities live there like one big
family: training together, relaxing and learning more about each other.
Sportsmen make friends even with those who can hardly understand them. The
village should be located as close as possible to the main stadium and other sports
buildings. Olympic villages are made only for athletes, coaches, team managers,
technical and service staff (members of the international organizations, judges,
journalists are not applicable). Modern Olympic Village doesn’t look like the
village - now it's modern high-rise buildings, well-equipped sports facilities for
training, hospital, shopping centers, cafe, post office, bath.
Cultural center creates conditions
for recreation and companionship
for all athletes from all countries.In
the Olympic village there is always
a spirit of friendship among the
athletes. The Olympic Village
provides excellent conditions for the
convergence of youth from different
countries of the world.
Taking into account all mentioned above, we can safely come to the conclusion
that Olympic village is a place where people of different nationalities and cultures
are united in one ―information field‖. So, we can conclude that Olympic village
and Global village have much in common as Global village unites people all over
the world by means of the Internet, thus people live in one information space.
Actually, Olympic village is Global village to some extent, its small version.
Holding Olympic Games contributes much into nations’ integration into the
process of globalization.
27III. Effect – Oriented Part
Our paper deals with a thorough analysis of Sochi Olympic Games 2014 including
detailed descriptions of sports competitions.
First, we summarized foreigners’ opinions concerning Russia before and after
Sochi Olympic Games;
Second, in our research work as a practical-oriented onewe watched and studiedthe
opening and closing ceremonies whichcontributed to creating positive Russian
image and the local colour by means of the specific peculiarities of Sochi Olympic
Games 2014 organization. As a result, we made a video film wherewe tried to
analyzed the brightest moments of Sochi Olympic Games 2014which reflect the
specific peculiarities of the Olympicsorganization and deal with the positive imafe
of Russia.
Third, we classified winter sports for the girls of ―Boarding School for Girls of
Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖ and summarized the major sports in
the booklet of methodical recommendations for the students.
28Fourth, taking into consideration the fact that winter sports are very good for
girls, they go in for these sports as they develop coordination, courage and
will-power, we decided to improve the school territory.So, we made a model
which represents the possibility for widening sports facilities for the girls of
―Boarding School for Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖.
29Conclusion
Society’s View of Russia after Sochi Olympic
Games 2014
For 17 days, Sochi has been the center of the universe. Russia obtained the
reputation as a global superpower. The main goal of Sochi Olympic Games 2014
is achieved. Olympics have demonstrated the contribution of Russian culture,
science and geopolitics to the world civilization through the eyes of foreigners. The
organization and Olympic events showed to all the world that the Russians’
inherent features are commitment, generosity, dignity and self-irony, and that we
are ready to sacrifice ourselves for achievement of global goals. Reorganization of
funding for science and education expanded Olympic budget and created the
conditions for accelerated change of generations and following integration into the
global space. One goal helped to solve many tasks. Undoubtedly, the Olympic
Games in Sochi ―will long stay in in the hearts of people all over the planet‖.
As a result,
1. we gave a thorough analysis of Sochi Olympic Games 2014 including the
detailed descriptions of sports competitions, the opening and closing
ceremonies and the scenery of Sochi Olympic Games 2014;
2. we showed Russian image and the local colour by means of the specific
peculiarities of Sochi Olympic Games 2014 organization representing the
positive image of the country;
3. we summarized foreigners’ opinions concerning Russia before and after Sochi
Olympic Games;
4. we summarized the major winter sports in the booklet of methodical
recommendations for the students and determined the ways of representing
Russian image through Sochi Olympic Games 2014 in the video film;
5. we classified winter sports forthe girls of ―Boarding School for Girls of
Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖;
6. we assessed possibilities for sports facilities for the girls of ―Boarding School
for Girls of Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation‖ as models for
improving the school territory.
30At the opening ceremony the audience was treated to an alphabetic evocation of
great figures and moments in Russian history. It gives us an idea to describe the
word ―Russia‖.
R – RESPECTED
U – UNCONQUERABLE
S – SUPERPOWERFUL
S –STRONG
I – INTERNATIONAL
A – ADVANCED
31List of References and Literature
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2) Голденков М. История зимних олимпиад: Дорога в Сочи / Михаил
Голденков. – Минск: ТетраСистемс, 2011. – 352 с.
3) Занина Е.Л. ЕГЭ. Английский язык. Устные темы – М.: АЙРИС ПРЕСС,
2010. – 272 с.
4) Кристал Д. Английский язык как глобальный / Кристал Д. пер. с англ. -
М.: Весь мир, 2001. – 240 с.
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Моннэн; [пер. с фр. К. В. Левиной, Т. П. Михайловой, Н. И. Озерской]. –
М.: РИПОЛ классик, 2013. – 296 с.
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2013. - 176 с.
7) Юнёва С.А. Открывая мир с английским языком. Современные темы для
обсуждения – М.: Интеллект-Центр, 2012. – 136 с.Crystal D. English as a
global language. – Cambridge: CUP, 1998.
8) Longman Dictionary of English Language and Culture – Langenscheidt-
Longman, 1998. 1568 p.
9) McArthur T. The English languages. Cambridge: Cambridge University
Press, 1998. 247 p.
10) XXII Олимпийские зимние игры: http://www.sochi2014.com/
11) Декларация тысячелетия Организации Объединенных Наций:
https://www.un.org
12) История Олимпийских игр: https://ru.wikipedia.org/
13) Предолимпийский Сочи: http://sochi2013.com/
14) Церемония закрытия Зимних олимпийских игр в Сочи:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/
15) Sochi 2014: http://www.olympic.org/
32Appendix
Examples from the poll “Before the Olympic Games”
Examples from the poll “After the Olympic Games”
33The Booklet
34The Model 35
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