Advanced German: Contemporary German Literature

In the fall semester, we will read stories and novels written in Germany after 1989. Writers such as Daniel Kehlmann, Clemens Meyer, Bernhard Schlink, Judith Hermann, Monika Maron, W.G. Sebald, Maxim Biller, and others will introduce students to contemporary German culture. We will explore how German writers deal with the legacy of national socialism and the Holocaust, German reunification and the Stalinist past in the former East Germany, and a new “multicultural” Germany. Films and articles from the magazine Der Spiegel will enrich our discussions. This course consists of three equally important components: Students will have one seminar with Mr. Dollinger, who will discuss the class materials in German; one seminar with Ms. Mizelle, who will work with students collectively on various grammar and vocabulary issues; and one biweekly individual conference with Mr. Dollinger. Students must demonstrate advanced language skills during registration in order to be permitted into this class. Course conducted entirely in German.