Colonialism, Exoticism, Race

In this course we will examine Germany’s short era of colonialism (1894-1918) and its long-lasting legacies. We will examine concepts of “race” as they have existed since the 18th century as categorizing terms referring to humans. We will also discuss examples of exoticism, the fascination with and representation of cultures perceived as foreign or different, e.g. during “Karneval” in German culture. Through our analysis of literary and non-literary texts, interviews, photography, documentaries, films, museum exhibitions and many other materials, we will gain an understanding of race politics and exoticisms during the colonial period, under the National Socialist regime, in post-war and in post-reunification Germany. (GRMN 0202 or placement exam) 3hrs. sem.