Theorizing Culture

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

GERM 510 is designed to introduce students to the major concepts, thinkers, and debates concerning European cultural identity formation. We will examine the historical emergence of national identity in the context of modern mass-produced print culture; trace the construction of a post-national, multicultural democracy in contradistinction to the colonial, fascist, and communist past through a consideration of museums and memorials; and explore the appeals to a cosmopolitan Europe in relation to visual media. Each module comprises theoretical readings and an application of the theories to cultural texts and objects. It is designed to make you more astute interpreters of cultural objects, and encourage you to set your knowledge of German culture in the context of European and transatlantic relations. In addition, the course will introduce you to certain genres of academic writing and oral presentation, enabling you to become more skilled at textual analysis, strengthen your abilities to conduct independent and collaborative research, and communicate succinctly and effectively. The class is organized as a seminar. Most weeks, I will begin the class with an introductory lecture, followed by a discussion of the assigned texts and an application of theoretical concepts to cultural texts, artifacts, and sites. Course Objectives: In this course, students will • approach the major concepts, problems, and questions concerning European cultural identity formation from a transatlantic perspective • practice the analysis and interpretation of cultural texts, artifacts, and sites that are relevant to European identities • adopt a self-reflective stance on transatlantic cultural differences and commonalities • improve abilities in oral presentations and collaborative work