GNM4275 - Critics of Civilisation

Leader: Axel Fliethmann

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit deals with major contributions to a central debate within German cultural and intellectual life concerning the value and status of mainstream German and Western cultural traditions. Reading the 'cultural critics' from Heine to Adorno opens up a key and controversial dimension to German intellectual history.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this subject students should have developed an understanding of Heine's view of German intellectual history, Marx's interpretation of history, Nietzsche's critique of Western culture and morality, Freud's theory of civilisation and Horkheimer and Adorno's of Western popular culture; formed a critical understanding of the texts studied through close reading; and grasped the premises and implications of the theories and critiques presented by the texts.

Assessment

Two essays in German (1000 words each): 25%
Two essays on German texts (2500 words each): 50%
Two examinations (1 hour each): 25%

Contact hours

3 hours (3 x seminars) per week

Prerequisites

Advanced German Studies 3, part 2 or above; or equivalent