German Studies 354: German Cinema Culture

How does culture cope with modernity? Do old narrative forms still work in the twentieth century? What are the limits of text and the abilities of film? What does a new medium tell us about a new time? This course grapples with these and other questions in its study of the development of cinema in Germany from early German expressionist films to present day films that grapple with contemporary cultural issues, including immigration and ongoing attempts to process German history. In studying these films, students will discuss propaganda, identity politics, film adaptation, and mass culture in context. Students will be develop film and text analysis, advanced research, and writing skills through sophisticated discussion, presentation, and writing assignments. The course is conducted in English, and readings will be available in both German and English. Students with advanced German language skills will complete reading, some writing, and discussion in German. This class will require a screening. May be taken for credit toward the Film & Media Studies major or minor. Formerly German 405; may not be taken for credit if completed 405.