GERM 365 | Images of the GDR in Literature and Film since the Fall of the Wall

Thirty years ago, on November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall opened. Less than a year later East and West Germany were politically and economically united, and the German Democratic Republic officially ceased to exist. Yet scholars, journalists, writers and filmmakers have continued to explore the 40 years of divided Germany, including tensions that continued after unification. This seminar explores some of the many literary and cinematic representations of the East both as a place many are glad to have left behind as well as a place of longing for others. The course begins with a brief discussion of the history the GDR, the "Wende," or time of transition leading up to the fall of the fall, and German unification. Among other questions, the course considers these questions: What aspects of the GDR past are thematized in texts? Which aspects are glorified or denigrated? Which aspects are remembered wistfully and which angrily? How do western and eastern authors/filmmakers differ in their treatment of the GDR past? What do these differences suggest about unification and the future of Germany? Class will be conducted in German in a supportive environment. All assignments will be written or presented in German.