CLTR OF GERMAN-SPEAKING EUROPE

This course provides curious students with a practical guide to the cultures of German-speaking Europe from Teutonic barbarians to Teutonic rap. This course focuses on the interconnectedness of many diverse areas of German culture through the centuries (literature, art, philosophy, music, domestic culture, popular culture) and their relationship to contemporary life and society. Class discussions and practice sessions emphasize the application of this knowledge to today’s world. No previous knowledge of German culture or language required. Conducted in English.

TOPCS: CULTR & SOC-BRANDING

Topics course. Normally offered both fall and spring semesters: Can a country “brand” itself? Product names such as Mercedes, Ritter Sport, BMW, Adidas, Volkswagen and Braun are known throughout the world. But to what extent are phenomena such as soccer, migration and renewable energy policy part of Germany’s current “brand”? This course examines Germany’s efforts to re-create its “brand” since reunification in 1990 and considers the implications of such branding within the global community. Conducted in German with some readings in English.

ELEMENTARY GERMAN

An introduction to spoken and written German, and to the culture and history of German-speaking peoples and countries. Emphasis on grammar and practical vocabulary for use in conversational practice, written exercises, and listening and reading comprehension. By the end of the year, students are able to read short, edited literary and journalistic texts as a basis for classroom discussion and to compose short written assignments. Yearlong courses cannot be divided at midyear with credit for the first semester.

ELEMENTARY GERMAN

An introduction to spoken and written German, and to the culture and history of German-speaking peoples and countries. Emphasis on grammar and practical vocabulary for use in conversational practice, written exercises, and listening and reading comprehension. By the end of the year, students are able to read short, edited literary and journalistic texts as a basis for classroom discussion and to compose short written assignments. Yearlong courses cannot be divided at midyear with credit for the first semester.

ADV INTERMEDIATE GERMAN

Discussion of modern German culture, society and technology, with an emphasis on environmental issues. Introduction and practice of more advanced elements of grammar; work on expanding vocabulary specific for academic fields; weekly writing and oral assignments. Students who successfully complete GER 250 are eligible for the Study Abroad Program in Hamburg. Prerequisite: 200, permission of the instructor or by placement.

ADV TOPCS-EVIL & GER IMAGINARY

Each topic focuses on a particular literary epoch, movement, genre or author from German literary culture. All sections taught in German.Normally offered each spring: For some, German culture had a shadowy international profile even before the Nazis came to power. This seminar examines the works of the imagination that contributed to this dark image, including the Faust legend, the works of horror once called “German tales,” and the haunted screen of Weimar cinema. We will also consider the transformed understanding of such works in the aftermath of the Holocaust.

IMAGINING EVIL

Same is ENG 271. This course explores how artists and thinkers over the centuries have grappled with the presence of evil—how to account for its perpetual recurrence, its ominous power, its mysterious allure. Standing at the junction of literature, philosophy, and religion, the notion of evil reveals much about the development of the autonomous individual, the intersection of morality, freedom and identity, and the confrontation of literary and historical evil. Readings include literary works from Milton, Goethe, Blake, Kleist, E.T.A.
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