Topics in German Literature I

Close study of selected major literary works from the Middle Ages to the Age of the Enlightenment. The course will normally focus on a theme, movement or genre which links the selected works in a common or conflicting tradition. Class discussion and short papers will aim at developing the ability to read literature critically. A short creative writing project is part of the requirements. Although the course focuses on a pre-modern period, links are made to later periods and to the present. Recent offerings: the Middle Ages and how medieval imagery and ideas were revitalized by the Romantics and the 20th century; and “Der Garten,” what historical changes this archetypical image underwent in different periods from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. May be repeated for credit. Pre- or co-requisites: ILCG 205 and 206 or consent of the instructor.