This course stresses written communication on an advanced level. Students write extensively, progressing from simple paragraphs to full-length academic papers. By creating lengthy texts, students practice different style levels and learn the style conventions of written German. The first half of German Literary Tradition provides a chronological survey of German literature from around 800 to 1750. The most significant works of literature, ranging from Old High German and medieval epics to lyrical poetry, early novels and dramas will be introduced and discussed.
Emphasis is placed on the tools of analysis specific to German literary studies and criticism.
Reading, discussing, and writing about significant texts affords understanding of literature and reinforcement of advanced language skills. 3323.German Literary Tradition II continues the survey of German literature from the Enlightenment to the present. German classicism, particularly the Weimar circle of Goethe and Schiller, is the focus of this course. Major works by Lessing, Kleist, and Biichner, as well as modern texts, will be introduced. Students engage the texts in reading, discussions, and writing.