Milestones in German cultural history

Teacher(s)

Roland Hubert;

Language

Deutsch

Main themes

Study of the major cultural, societal and political developments, and major trends in artistic expression in German-speaking European countries (intellectual life, painting, music, architecture, etc.) from a diachronic perspective and in relation to the present, from the perspective of places of remembrance, for instance. 

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
Students will be able to master an overview of the development and cultural aspects of German-speaking countries. By the end of the course, the student will have a knowledge and appreciation of the cultural aspects of German-speaking countries in a European context.
1	Understand and follow a presentation in German.
2	Debate questions and issues relating to contemporary cultures in German language and their history.
3	Critically analyse cultural expressions and representations from the perspective of the history of cultural ideas.
This learning unit contributes to the development and command of the following skills and learning outcomes of the ELAL programmes: 2.6, 4.3, 5.6, 6.6

Content

The course will study the development of Germany and German-speaking countries since the fall of the Berlin Wall through the lens of cultural, political and social issues that demonstrate deep European roots and the importance of interconnected relationships with neighbouring countries. In particular, the study of Franco-German and German-Polish dialogues in culture and the arts will foster a methodological perspective inspired by the methods of cultural transfer and shared history (verflochtene Geschichte), which enables to move beyond nationalism and works towards the construction of Europe, in which Germany continues, more than ever, to play a major role.
Building on the approach of the LDEU1115 course, we shall also seek to explain the continuities and ruptures – such as those arising from wars and conflicts – which have been highlighted by the ‘places of memory’ (Erinnerungsorte) approach, a perspective without which it is impossible to understand contemporary issues or explain current political and social developments surrounding controversial topics such as exile and migration, which have largely shaped German realities since at least the 18th century.

Teaching methods

8 to 10 lectures will deal with themes linked to the questioning of memorial sites, from a resolutely contemporary perspective and therefore anchored in current issues. Secondly, group presentations will address specific places of remembrance, in consultation with the teacher and the students' interests. This participation will of course be valued in the assessment.     

Evaluation methods

The assessment will consist of a written part, in the form of summary papers to be written during the four-month term (40%) and an oral part at the examination during the January session (60%). 

Faculty or entity

> ELAL