Description:
This course investigates the changing literary and social roles of German women from the 18th to the 21st century. Selected readings of women’s literary and cultural productions will also illustrate the history of gender coding from the period of
Empfindsamkeit to the
fin de siècle. In addition to examining cultural artifacts, such as novels, plays, screen scripts, paintings and advertisements, the course also offers an insight into the Women’s movement (both in Eastern and Western Germany). An introduction to main concepts of gender theory provides the basis to analyze the variety of gender identities and representations. The language of instruction is English, and no prior knowledge of the German language is required. Advanced‑level students — i.e. students placed at the 300 level or higher in German language courses — must do the readings and submit their work in German.
Component(s):
Lecture