German Studies 312: Fantasy or Nightmare? Heimat in German Culture

Heimat is perhaps the most politically and historically loaded term in the German language: it was appropriated by National-Socialism, to help reclaim German culture after World War II, and is being used by resurgent right wing movements in Germany today, only to name a few. This course traces Heimat’s roots in German culture, art, and literature since the nineteenth century and examines the way that it excludes people on the basis of their (perceived) gender, sexuality, race, religion, etc. We will criticize the concept of Heimat, reading texts by authors who are skeptical about the value or even existence of Heimat, asking where its baggage comes from, how it shapes and is shaped by German aesthetic contexts, and whether this term is useful or could be reimagined or reclaimed in contemporary German society. This course is an advanced interdisciplinary German Studies course that encourages students to challenge dominant narratives in German Culture by studying a cultural problem from a variety of perspectives. Students will also continue developing high-level German language with a focus on discussion skills, presentational language, advanced grammar, and regular writing assignments. Students will gain additional conversation practice through required weekly conversation groups with the language assistant. Course taught in German.