German Studies in Berlin

Faculty Directors

Lydia Butt, Lecturer in German

David Tompkins, Associate Professor of History 

Overview

Berlin is one of the most fascinating places in Europe, both for its history and for its status as a cultural metropolis.  Like no other German city, it bears the scars of recent German history and carries the hopes and promises of a united Germany and a united Europe. With its important role as the capital of Prussia and then the German Empire and the Weimar Republic, its sites of political decisions and destruction under the Nazis, and the fact that for over forty years it served as the symbol for Germany’s (and Europe's) division, Berlin provides a stimulating environment to explore German and European history. The most recent European economic crisis has once more underscored the fact that Germany continues to be at the forefront of European politics and economics. To further explore Berlin and Germany's connections to its European neighbors, we will take trips to Prague, Warsaw and Vienna.

Berlin's symbolic function during the Cold War helped to deepen its intellectual and artistic culture. Thus, the city impresses the visitor with dozens of theaters, a number of major orchestras, three opera houses, and countless internationally-renowned museums. Superb public transportation and an urban biking culture allow easy access to Berlin's riches. The many public parks and waterways increase the attraction of Berlin for those who like the outdoors. Its location at the heart of Europe makes Berlin an excellent and convenient base for exploring other European cities and regions. The German capital’s low cost of living compared to other European metropolises has attracted a diverse range of inhabitants; their contributions – a vibrant art scene, global startups, a rich and progressive music culture, and countless culinary options besides the traditional Currywurst – have prompted its mayor to quip: "Berlin is poor but sexy."

Housing

Students will be placed with German families or individuals, with a room of their own to ensure privacy and the ability to study for classes.  The activities students do together with their hosts varies, depending on the time and interest of both parties. In most cases, there are some shared activities, and in some instances, lifelong friendships have developed. Students will receive a food stipend to cover groceries, as meals are not provided by hosts. Living with Berliners is an integral part of the program.

Learning Goals

• To get a head start learning German in an immersive environment if you are new to the language;
• To significantly expand language proficiency and fluency if you already know some German;
• To acquire a more in-depth understanding of the significance of Berlin within German and European history;
• To learn how to analyze different media, including drama, theater, literature, and film from the perspectives of literary and cultural studies as well as historical research;
• To hone research skills and explore connections between your academic interests and Berlin culture through a larger academic project;
• To immerse yourself in a foreign culture and experience the challenges and discoveries of life in a new environment. 

 

For questions about coursework or Berlin, students may contact Prof. Butt or Tompkins by phone or email: x5558 lbutt@carleton.edu or x4215 dtompkin@carleton.edu. Other questions may be addressed to the Office of Off-Campus Studies, Leighton 119, x4332.