Ghostly Doubles: Romantic Storytelling and Early German Film
GRST 292
Spring 2011 not offered
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The Doppelgänger (double) is a common motif in German literature, in particular among the Romantic authors of the early 19th century, noted for their fascination with the mysterious and the uncanny. Sigmund Freud and other psychoanalysts frequently referred to Romantic novellas to illustrate the workings of the unconscious. The motif of the ghostly double experiences a renaissance in early German film, which often refers to and reflects on its own mediality. In this course, we will follow the motif of the uncanny double, the shadows, and mirror images that suddenly become autonomous, from Romanticism to psychoanalysis to film. We will discuss how the motif of the ghostly double can also shed light on narrative technique in literature and the technical aspects of film. Reading assignments include works by E. T. A. Hoffmann, Adalbert von Chamisso, Jean Paul, Sigmund Freud, and Otto Rank. Films include The Student of Prague (1913), The Golem (1920), The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920), Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler (1922), and M (1931). |
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Essential Capabilities:
Intercultural Literacy, Interpretation
Interpretation: close textual analysis and contextualizing comprehension will be integral components of this course.
Intercultural Literacy: The course will critically explore different cultures (Romanticism and Modernism), genres and media (literature and film)
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
HA GRST |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: None |
Major Readings:
E.T.A. Hoffmann, THE SANDMAN; Adalbert von Chamisso, PETER SCHLEHMIHL, Jean Paul, SIEBENKÄS, Sigmund Freud, THE UNCANNY, INTERPRETATION OF DREAMS, Otto Rank, THE DOUBLE, Jacques Lacan, THE MIRROR STAGE
Films: THE STUDENT OF PRAGUE; THE GOLEM; THE CABINET OF DR. CALIGARI; DR. MABUSE, THE GAMBLER; M
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Examinations and Assignments:
Two short paper (4-6 pages), one final research paper (10-12 pages). Regular participation is expected. |
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