German literature before 1945

Undergraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

The course is an introduction to the history of German-language literature from around 1750 to 1945, based on a selection of literary works or excerpts (novels, short stories, plays, poems).

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, the student will have the following learning outcomes, defined in terms of knowledge, skills, and general competence:

Knowledge:

The student

  • has basic knowledge of periods and developments in the history of German-language literature from around 1750 to 1945
  • has basic knowledge of a selection of literary-theoretical concepts

Skills:

The student

  • is able to discuss literary texts in German in groups and seminars
  • can write short literary analyses in German
  • can give oral presentations on the relevant subject matter in German, either in seminars or in the form of videos or podcasts

General competence:

The student

  • has gained experience in communicating in German about complex topics
  • has gained experience in using appropriate learning strategies to work independently with subject matter
  • has gained experience in being a co-producer of new knowledge in a learning collective
  • has gained experience in analytical and critical thinking as well as problem-solving
  • has gained experience in creative working methods
  • has gained experience in written and oral dissemination
  • has expanded digital communication skills
  • is well prepared to continue German studies at the 200-level

ECTS Credits

10 ECTS

Level of Study

Bachelor

Semester of Instruction

Autumn

Place of Instruction

The entire course is offered online.

Parts of the teaching will also be offered as seminars at the university’s campus in Bergen.

This course is also offered as an online course (TYS638) with admission through UiB Continuing Education (UiB videre).

Required Previous Knowledge
No formal requirements, but all teaching is conducted in German and presupposes good knowledge of the language.
Recommended Previous Knowledge
It is recommended that students have passed TYS108 or an equivalent course.
Credit Reduction due to Course Overlap
Due to certain academic overlaps, the credit count for TYS118 will be reduced by 10 credits if combined with TYS114, TYS114-F, or TYS638, and by 5 credits if combined with TYS116 or TYS636.
Access to the Course
The course is open to all students admitted to the University of Bergen.
Teaching and learning methods

Teaching takes place in the form of lectures and, if applicable, preparatory packages (see below).

Active participation by students is a prerequisite.

  • Two double lectures
  • 12 weeks

or:

  • One double lecture
  • One preparatory package per week for self-study
  • 12 weeks
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

During the semester, students must give a short oral presentation (between 5 and 10 minutes according to specific guidelines), either in person or as a podcast/video.

Approval of mandatory coursework requirements is valid for the teaching semester and the following semester

Forms of Assessment

The exam consists of a seven-day home exam written in German (approximately 1500-2000 words) and an oral exam (about 20 minutes).

The oral exam includes a presentation of about 10 minutes, and there will also be questions about the home exam and the syllabus in general.

The design of the exam is based on the content, exercises, and activities in lectures/seminars and in connection with the mandatory assignments.

Both parts of the exam must be passed in the same semester.

A single overall grade is given. The home exam counts for 50% and the oral exam for 50% of the final grade.

Grading Scale
A graded scale from A to F is used, where F is a fail.
Assessment Semester

Autumn

There is also an assessment early in the spring semester for students with valid approval of mandatory coursework

Reading List

The syllabus includes:

  • a selection of literary works
  • a brief introduction to literary history from the 18th century to 1945

The reading list will be available on July 1 for the autumn semester.

Course Evaluation
Evaluation of the course is carried out in accordance with the University of Bergen quality assurance system.
Examination Support Material
Not relevant
Programme Committee
The Programme Board is responsible for the academic content and structure of the study programme, and for the quality of all the subjects therein.
Course Coordinator
The Program Board for German Studies.
Course Administrator
The Department of Foreign Languages at the Faculty of Humanities has the administrative responsibility for the course and the study programme.