The concept of "friend or foe" in pre-Soviet and Soviet verbal culture . A special course textbook is a unique publication created by a team of authors that immerses the reader in deep reflections on the cultural and sociological aspects associated with the concept of “own” and “alien” .. This manual is not just a textbook, but a real encyclopedia that explores how these concepts were formed and perceived in the Russian verbal tradition, from pre-Soviet times to the era of the Soviet Union. The book will be of interest to students, teachers, as well as everyone who is fond of cultural studies, sociology, history and literature. It will become an indispensable assistant for those who study Russian culture, language policy and sociolinguistics. If you want to understand how historical and social contexts influenced your perception of identity and belonging, this guide will be a real discovery for you. The authors of the book carefully explore how the concept of “friend or foe” manifests itself in various genres and forms of verbal art. They analyze not only literary works, but also folklore, folk songs, proverbs and sayings that reflect the mentality and worldview of the people. The book addresses important topics such as national identity, social stratification, and the impact of political regimes on cultural perceptions. Such studies help to understand how historical events and social changes form ideas about “their own” and “alien” in the minds of people. The style of the authors is distinguished by scientific rigor and at the same time the availability of the presentation, which makes the material understandable and fascinating for a wide audience. They use many examples and illustrations, which allows the reader to better understand complex concepts and see their application in real life. This guide can serve not only as teaching material, but also as an inspiration for researchers and practitioners working in the field of culture and education. The book "The concept of "friend or foe" in pre-Soviet and Soviet verbal culture" will be an important contribution to the study of Russian culture and language. It raises pressing questions about how identity is shaped and changed by time and circumstances. In the context of globalization and cultural exchange, understanding these concepts becomes especially important, because they help us to realize how we perceive others and how we are perceived. If you are looking for literature that combines in-depth research and practical application of knowledge, this guide will be a real find for you. It will open new horizons in the understanding of Russian verbal culture and help you look at familiar things from a new perspective. Do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with this outstanding work, which will become a reliable companion in your educational and cultural path.