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American Studies: Theory, Research and Projects
DozentIn: Prof. Dr. phil. Peter Schneck
Veranstaltungstyp: Seminar
Ort: nicht angegeben
Zeiten: Mo. 16:00 - 18:00 (wöchentlich)
Beschreibung: Please note that you have to take part in the enrollment process (Anmeldeverfahren) in order to get a place in this seminar! Read the specifics at the bottom of the course page!
Description:
This advanced bachelor course is meant as an introduction to a selected set of topics, debates and theoretical approaches that are both central and formative for American Cultural Studies as a field of study and research.
In the first section of the course we will read and discuss short introductory texts in order to understand the specific significance, as well as the complexity of central cultural ideas and practices and the way in which they shape the self-perception of U.S.-American culture and society, but also the image of the USA in the world. During the second phase students will identify and develop individual topics and projects selecting and bringing in their own (and new) material (from all fields of cultural production) in order to expand their understanding of American cultural studies as a critical practice.
The course is meant to provide students who are interested in a more focused study of U.S.-American culture and society with a general overview its most significant features and dynamics. It also aims at making them more familiar with some of the most important approaches and discussions that inform the field of American cultural studies.
Requirements:
Careful preparation of assigned readings for seminar and group discussions; regular attendance and active participation in various online formats (small groups, class conferences, presentations); short presentations or discussion statements; short writing assignments. There will be no final seminar paper required, students who are planning to take this class for graded credits should be aware that grading will take into consideration the continuity of active investment in the various forms of spoken and written formats. (All details will be discussed in the first session!!)
Main sources:
Philip J. Deloria; Alexander Olson. American Studies. A User's Guide. Berkeley: U of California P, 2017.
Martin Middeke, et al. English and American Studies. Theory and Practice. Stuttgart: Metzler, 2012.
Neil Campbell, Alasdair Kean. American Cultural Studies. An Introduction to American Culture. 4th Ed. London: Routledge, 2016.
Heike Paul. The Myths That Made America. An Introduction to American Studies. Bielefeld: Transcript, 2014.
