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FUBiS Term III: Metropole Berlin in Literatur und Kultur von 1945 bis zur Gegenwart
(course # 3.17)
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Type: |
B-Track |
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Instructor(s): |
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Language: |
German |
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Contact hours: |
48 (6 per day) |
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Credit Points: |
4 |
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Capacity: |
18 |
Resources
Course description
The metropolis Berlin has always been relevant for literary developments and movies. This course will look at the mutually constitutive ways in which Berlin as place and Berlin as object for text/film have defined each other since the end of WWII. Rather than providing a survey of 20th- and 21st-century German literature and film, we will discuss works that present conflicting views and imaginings of three historically distinct Berlins: Berlin during the immediate postwar period, Berlin as a divided city, and Berlin as reunified Germany's new capital. Examining representations of Berlin within these three periods, we will focus our discussions on key concepts and issues such as 'Heimat,' the political and social vocation of art, and contending notions of national identity. In addition, we will visit important sites of literary production and explore the vast cultural variety of the city.
Student profile
Except for a good working knowledge of German, students do not have to be well-versed in postwar German history or literature. This course is designed for students with different backgrounds who are interested in modern German literature and film about Berlin. Although primarily intended for undergraduate students, this course is equally suited for advanced students who would like to get introduced to Berlin's fascinating literary and cinematic landscapes.
Prerequisites
Language Requirement: German Intermediate II or better.
Short description of intermediate II language competency:
Can understand the main contents of complex texts on concrete and abstract topics; also understands specialized discussions in his/her own primary area of specialization. Can communicate so spontaneously and fluently that a normal conversation with native speakers is easily possible without a great deal of effort on either side. Can express him/herself on a wide range of topics in a clear and detailed manner, explain his/her position on a current issue and indicate the benefits and drawbacks of various options.
Course Requirements & Grading
- 30% Regular attendance and active class participation. This course is run as a seminar, i. e. your participation in class is crucial. If you have to miss a session, you need to provide me with a doctor's note or other documentation.
- 25% Two response papers of approximately 500 words (two pages) each.
- 20% One oral presentation of approximately 15 minutes. Intended to kick off the class discussion, the presentations should primarily reflect your very own insights, questions, and arguments. Topics will be distributed in the first week of class.
- 25% Final paper of about 2,500 words (appr. ten pages).
Reading
A Reader will be made available at the orientation meeting.
Recommended Course combinations:
