Fall 2023 Tentative Class Descriptions
German 1. Elementary German.
This class develops the four language skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing) in a highly authentic cultural context. The course will enable students to communicate in German about everyday topics (family, everyday routine, university life, shopping, recreational activities). The students will learn to interpret authentic German language texts from a variety of media and enhance their knowledge of cultural issues. Grammar points that are necessary for speaking German accurately in these contexts will be covered.
GER 1G. German for Graduate Students.
Kommerell
First part of a two-quarter sequence that introduces graduate students to the essentials of the German language with emphasis on aspects of structure that are indispensable for reading skills. Translation of academic, literary, philosophical, scientific, and journalistic texts. Open to students with graduate standing in any field.
German 3. Elementary German.
Pajak
This class develops the four language skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing) in a highly authentic cultural context. The course will enable students to communicate in German about everyday topics (family, everyday routine, university life, shopping, recreational activities). The students will learn to interpret authentic German language texts from a variety of media and enhance their knowledge of cultural issues. Grammar points that are necessary for speaking German accurately in these contexts will be covered.
German 4. Intermediate German.
This course reviews and builds upon what was learned in first-year German, enhancing students? knowledge of German language and culture. The students will further develop their writing, reading, listening, and speaking skills through a variety of media. The goals for this course are to expand on speaking German with fluency and accuracy, reading short authentic texts, discussing German films and songs, and writing coherent, organized essays.
German 35. The Making of the Modern World.
Vagt
Description and analysis of decisive events contributing to the world we are inhabiting. Various themes presented: City planning, war and industrial warfare, technology and media technology, ideologies of modernity, and modern master-theories.
German 101A. Advanced German.
Evelyn Reder
Speaking, listening, reading, and writing on an advanced level, while exploring contemporary German culture. Systematic review of grammar material. Additional focus on vocabulary building. Written and oral discussions based on newspaper articles, literary texts, German films, and websites.
German 106. Advanced Reading and Writing Skills in German.
Kelsey White
This course focuses on the development of advanced reading and writing skills in German. In particular, we will draw on a variety of authentic materials to develop students' ability to analyze and produce a range of genres; enhance students' awareness of pre-, during- and post-reading strategies and how to apply them to different styles of writing; improve use of strategies to help
German 117. Special Topics in German Culture.
Vagt
In-depth study of special topics important important for an understanding of German culture, drawing on a broad range of print and visual media, music and architecture. Topics will vary by instructor. Taught in German.
German 179B. Mysticism.
Weber
Analysis of German mystical writing, its roots in ancient Greek texts, revolutionary impact, links with other mystical traditions, and influence on secular literature. Texts include Hildegard von Bingen, Meister Eckhart, Mechthild von Magdeburg, Novalis, Rilke, etc. Taught in English.
German 179C. Mediatechnology.
Kittler
Telegraph, telephone, phonograph, and film are techniques that have engendered new forms of representation, communication, and thinking. Course studies the impact of these transformations in literature and on literature. Taught in English.