1 When a Russian person speaks with somebody or sits down near them, the distance between them and other people is usually shorter than between individuals in other countries.
2 If you meet a Russian person in the street and ask him about his life you will have to listen all about it.
3 He will tell you about his problems, illnesses, not only his but of his relatives’ too.
4 The most favourite topic of conversation is politics.
5 All Russians have their own views on the political situation in the country and want to share their views with others.
6 They are self-ironical.
7 One day they can criticise their country, their politics and their life, but the next day they can tell you that Russia is the best country in the world.
8 The Russians are romantic as well.
9 They believe that there is success and happiness waiting for them ahead, but they often do nothing to achieve them.
10 A typical Russian is melancholic.
11 He has a hope for the best but prepares for the worst.
12 The Russians have a sensible perception of life.
13 They need close relations and they are emotionally dependent on their environment.
14 The Russians are also very dependent on the social opinion.
15 That is why their behaviour in public places differs from their behaviour with friends and relatives.
Of course, we should understand that there are two views of seeing national stereotypes. The first point of view – how the nation sees itself; the second – how the other nations see it. I tried to give just both points of view.
Ой, не на то задание, сейчас исправлю