The German media have a strong tradition of free, independent, and rigorous news reporting. At the same time, the German press has faced serious concerns about censorship, and smear campaigns in German tabloids have been cited as a cause for physical violence perpetrated by readers. In addition to traditional news outlets, other forms of media such as films, literature, and architecture play a crucial role in the way Germany deals with its past and invents an identity for its future. This rich media landscape will serve as our field of study in German 3014.
Students will examine themes from contemporary German culture through the lens of various forms of media. Course materials include frequent brief readings and viewing assignments from German news sources. Additional materials include experimental and popular films, graphic novels, internet blogs, and architectural works such as memorials and monuments, as well as excerpts from important works of media theory. Students will respond to these materials in class discussions, a number of short written responses, two analytic papers, and two creative media assignments.
Readings, assignments, and discussions are in German.