The course is comparative by its nature and presents general issues on case studies from Western, Central and Easter Europe. The course starts from with a discussion of Europe as a geopolitical entity and identifies its main divisions. It characterizes European non-democratic regimes of the past and turns towards dissident activities of Central and Eastern Europe, deals with theories of transition as well as specific instances of such a transition. The course provides an introduction to cultural aspects of Czech and in broader sense Central European environment. It concentrates on major historical events and processes that have shaped future developments in the area and contributed to various aspects of the Czech national identity.
Cultural awareness is initiated through readings and lectures followed by discussions.
Visits to historically important sites in Prague and the Czech Republic are an integral part of the course. Participants are expected to gain background knowledge of the region s history and civilization, to understand and examine issues of social changes and their effects on and interaction with social fabric of the nation. The course is complemented with reading and analysis of important fiction of respective epoques. Petr B lek, Vera Kotabova Modern Czech Film. The course provides a deeper insight into issues of modern Czechoslovak history and socio-cultural developments as documented by both major feature films and documentaries.