German Studies 221TH - German Culture and Histories: 'Black, Jewish and Muslim Cultures in Germany'

This course examines historical, cultural, and political developments that continue to frame debates about the twentieth century, World War II, the former GDR, German unification, and contemporary German identities. As much as German culture is riddled with extreme examples of persecution and nationalism, the presence of those deemed non-German, such as Black Africans, African Americans, Jews, and Muslims, shape cultural expression and cultural exchange. Drawing from critical race theory, critical ethnic studies, and gender studies, we consider work by non-Germans as well as the representation of others in German canonical and popular cultural production. Thematic focus helps students develop accuracy, fluency, and complexity of expression. Reading, writing, and speaking in German are consistently integrated. Special emphasis is placed on text organization toward expanding students' language abilities, with a gradual movement from personal forms of expression to written and public discourse.