GERMAN 422 A: Studies in Nineteenth-Century Literature and Culture

Winter 2024
Meeting:
MWF 10:30am - 11:20am / DEN 111
SLN:
15240
Section Type:
Lecture
Instructor:
Syllabus Description (from Canvas):

GERMAN 422: Studies In Nineteenth-Century Literature And Culture

German Romanticism and its Afterlives

MWF 10:30-11:20 – DEN 111

Professor Jason Groves | jagroves@uw.edu

From the fairy tales collected by the Brothers Grimm to the artistic fairy tales written by E.T.A. Hoffman, the literary products of German Romanticism are some of the most popular German-language texts within and without Germany. In this course we look at such stories, their historical contexts, their complicated legacies, and some of their contemporary adaptations by writers active in feminist, anti-racist, and decolonial movements. Some leading questions to be in explored in the course include: how authentic are the folk traditions in fairy tales? What are some differences between fairy tales and artistic fairy tales like “The Little Mermaid”? How does the imagination serve as a force for social transformation? How have writers from outside of German traditions negotiated the complicated legacy of these stories? We will pursue these and other topics in readings including the Grimms, Ludwig Tieck, E.T.A. Hoffman, and contemporary writers.

The course has three major goals: Students can expect to expand their knowledge of 19th century German literature; to sharpen their critical reading and writing skills; and to develop creative and analytical course-related projects. The texts are in German, while class discussion will be conducted in German and English. Recommended level of preparation: German 301, 302, and/or 303.

Texts not yet available at the University Bookstore; most will be available in PDF form.

Catalog Description:
Rotating special topics in literature and culture of the nineteenth century, such as particular movements, authors, genres, themes, or problems. Offered: W.
GE Requirements Met:
Arts and Humanities (A&H)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
November 30, 2023 - 2:35 pm