ClassInfo

This course examines the concept of Heimat, a German word that roughly translates to "homeland," but encompasses a complex set of meanings related to identity, place, and belonging. We will explore the historical, cultural, and political contexts in which Heimat emerged, as well as the ways in which it has been represented, critiqued, contested and reconceptualized in poetry, comics, non-fiction, short story, photography, and film. We will critically examine the role of Heimat in German national identity and politics, and its potential for exclusionary or harmful uses, including the rise of right-wing populist movements.Through readings, discussions, creative work, and written assignments, students will gain a deeper understanding of the diverse and often conflicting meanings of Heimat in German and Austrian culture and beyond. Course taught in German.

This course will challenge students to think critically about the meanings and associations of Heimat and to consider how it has shaped German identity and culture historically and today.

• Understand the historical and cultural contexts in which Heimat emerged as a concept.

• Consider the relationship between Heimat and migration

• Analyze the different definitions authors and artists use Heimat

• Re/defining Heimat for ourselves

• Reflections

• Presentation

• Gloss

• Attendance

• Midterm

• Event

• Final