Cultures of German-Speaking Countries Ii

In continuity with the first-year course, the aim of this course is to consolidate analytical tools for understanding factors of continuity and change in the social, political and cultural history of German-speaking countries. This is achieved through the study of a specific and well-defined constellation, selected for its critical relevance to a decisive phase in the modernisation processes that have taken place in these countries since the 18th century. By narrowing the scope to a focused dimension, the course seeks to enhance students' existing competencies through their application to a context that allows for a synchronic analysis — one that is open to an understanding of both intersections and fractures within the German-speaking world. These dynamics are examined in light of their historical and political causes and of the cultural forms used to represent them.

Knowledge and understanding
Students are expected to acquire advanced knowledge and strong analytical skills regarding pivotal moments in the cultural history of German-speaking countries. Particular attention is given to the relationship between intellectual activity and practical engagement, the development of models and paradigms that structure public discourse, and the development of interpretive frameworks for understanding the past with a view to steering the present. In line with the course's historical and cultural focus, students should demonstrate a mastery of key categories related to history and culture, and the ability to apply them to the analysis of specific segments of the collective history of German-speaking countries and their relations with other linguistic and cultural areas.
Applying knowledge and understanding
Students are expected be able to apply the acquired historical-cultural paradigms to practical intercultural situations. Interaction models studied through their historical development in practical contexts should be recognised in their current relevance and potential. The ability of students to apply the knowledge acquired will be verified in terms of their aptitude to grasp the specific characteristics of the historical and social environment in question, and to develop a differentiated understanding of how diachronically reconstructed processes continue to shape behaviours, forms of interaction and the broader landscape of social life in German-speaking countries.
Making judgements
Students will refine their ability to independently interpret diverse forms of participation in the public discourse, tools for organising intellectual production, and paradigms that shape relationships between individuals and communities within historically and culturally specific contexts.
Communication skills
Building on the foundations laid in the first-year course, students will be able to navigate complex communicative contexts that require decoding through a historical-cultural lens. Communication skills are expected to be framed in their historical nature and in relation to the practices and behaviours of established social groups.
Learning skills
Students are expected to further strengthen their ability to navigate bibliographic materials, databases and online corpora related to the topics covered by the course, as well as other information sources accessible through various channels — from digital platforms to direct engagement with institutions and other qualified stakeholders.