Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

German Culture Through Film. Enhances understanding of German culture and contemporary society through analysis of cultural and social issues presented in five German films. May explore issues including but not limited to: interracial and cultural relations, ethnic conflict, Germany during the Second World War, economic, social and historical perspectives in post-war Germany, roles of German men and women, self-discovery, German humor, East versus West. Course conducted in English and all films with English subtitles.

Students will gain cultural awareness and appreciation for the following aspects of German culture and society:

a. Interracial and cultural relations
b. Ethnic conflict
c. Historical and cultural perspectives of the Second World War
d. Economic, social, and historical perspectives of post-war Germany
e. Gender roles
f. German humor
g. Issues regarding east vs. west; pre- and post-wall
h. Self-discovery

1. Active participation in small group discussion
2. Active participation in class discussions
3. Conceptual written tasks to assess understanding of cultural and social themes in background readings and films
4. Individual and group presentations

1. Interracial and cultural relations
2. Ethnic conflict
3. Historical and cultural perspectives of the Second World War
4. Economic, social, and historical perspectives of post-war Germany
5. Gender roles
6. German humor
7. Issues regarding east vs. west; pre- and post-wall
8. Self-discovery

Competencies and Skills:

1. Recognizes basic cultural differences
2. Demonstrates understanding of relevant cultural and social issues in German society, both historically and in contemporary setting
3. Increased critical thinking skills
4. Ability to collaborate in small group setting
5. Speaking and listening responsibly and reflectively
6. Critical analysis of cultural issues in films