This course offers a survey of modern German literary, cultural, and intellectual currents, as well as an introduction to argumentation and analysis. Students will examine numerous issues and questions central to defining the complexity of modern German culture. R5A satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition requirement, and R5B satisfies the second half.

The gasp, the cry, the sigh – these are some of the most recognizable expressive gestures of the melodrama. Today, this is a label popularly wielded as a pejorative, in order to designate a text as over-the-top when it casts aside realistic representation in a quest to stir the emotions of those who are subjected to it. This course seeks to offer a corrective to these derisive constructions, treating melodrama seriously as a mode in its own right. Our focus will be on the ways in which so-called melodramatic texts represent and perform feelings. As we consult literary examples of the melodrama – from its origins in the sentimental literature of the 18th century to our present day – we will identify how emotions are written therein: what do feelings look like? What do they sound like? When does language fail in that expression? Who gets to feel? What role do we – the readers or the audience members – play in witnessing these feelings? As a Reading & Composition course, we will place extended attention on developing critical reading and writing skills. Students will complete several analytical writing assignments throughout the semester, in addition to regular bCourses discussion posts. A good deal of course time will be dedicated to writing workshops and peer review. Texts will be drawn primarily from the German-language tradition in English translation and our syllabus will include theatrical, narrative, and filmic works.

Requisites

• Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.

Credit Restrictions

Students will receive no credit for GERMAN R5B after passing GERMAN 5B.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills