A study of the leading ideas of the Western political tradition, focusing on such topics as justice, power, legitimacy, revolution, freedom, equality and forms of government -- democracy especially. Lecture/discussion format taught in independent sections, with one or more sections designated Writing Intensive. Open to all students. Entering students considering a major in Government are strongly encouraged to take the course in their first year, either in the fall or the spring semester.

Arranged in consultation with the department. Admission for junior and senior majors by permission of the department.

Each topic will focus on a particular literary epoch, movement, genre or author from German literary culture. All sections taught in German. Is humor incompatible with the German character? Why is there no German Shakespeare or Moliere? If there is such a thing as German humor, is it connected to Jewishness? George Eliot raises such questions in her seminal essay on Heinrich Heine, "German Wit" (1854), which will provide the starting point for a consideration of wit, humor, irony, satire, comedy in the literature, opera, and film of German-speaking countries.

Topics course. This course will focus on the concept and the reality of growing up in German-speaking Europe at different points in the past and in the present. Participants will examine texts and films for and about children and analyze the societal role of children and young adults and their education through the centuries. Readings of texts by Heinrich Hoffmann, Ludwig Thoma, Johanna Spyri, Waldemar Bonsels, Erich Kastner , Christine Nostlinger and others. Taught in German. Prerequisite: GER 220, permission of the instructor or by placement.

Introduction and practice of more advanced elements of grammar, with an emphasis on expanding vocabulary. Discussion of topics in modern German culture; development of reading skills using unedited literary and journalistic texts; weekly writing assignments. Students who successfully complete GER 250 will be eligible for the Junior Year Abroad in Hamburg. Prerequisite: 200, permission of the instructor, or by placement.

The purpose of this course is to provide curious students with a practical guide to the culture of German-speaking Europe from Teutonic barbarians to Teutonic rap. The main focus of this course will rest upon 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. Conducted in English. No previous knowledge of German culture or language required.

An introduction to spoken and written German, and to the culture and history of German-speaking people 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 will be able to read short edited literary and journalistic texts as a basis for classroom discussion and to compose short written assignments. Students who successfully complete this year-long course and take GER 200 and GER 250 (220) will be eligible for the Junior Year Abroad in Hamburg.

An introduction to spoken and written German, and to the culture and history of German-speaking people 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 will be able to read short edited literary and journalistic texts as a basis for classroom discussion and to compose short written assignments. Students who successfully complete this year-long course and take GER 200 and GER 250 (220) will be eligible for the Junior Year Abroad in Hamburg.

An introduction to spoken and written German, and to the culture and history of German-speaking people 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 will be able to read short edited literary and journalistic texts as a basis for classroom discussion and to compose short written assignments. Students who successfully complete this year-long course and take GER 200 and GER 250 (220) will be eligible for the Junior Year Abroad in Hamburg.

Admission by permission of the department. Proposals must be submitted in writing to the project director by the end of the first week of classes.