Today, as in past centuries, the city of Berlin is a special attraction for creative artists and is the focus of various novels.

The confrontation with diversity and migration, the consequences of the division of the country and the anonymity of modern life is condensed in the experience of the big city and leads directly to questions of identity and the meaningful design of a "togetherness" - a self-determined and sustainable life.

Some authors reflect the current trend of retreating to the countryside to escape superficial structures. In literary production, Berlin often appears as an antithesis to the quieter life in smaller cities or in other regions, but sometimes also as a place of inner retreat.  More recent novels even raise the question of what role geography, what role certain places still play at all. Speed, alienation, precarious working conditions and social pressure have become global experiences. In this respect, the course does not only deal with "Berlin novels".

The analysis traces both the psychological processes, such as the difficult search for identity, and the desire for social change in Germany. Biographical and historical backgrounds, the reception of more recent books and references to classic works of literature play a central role.

• You will receive a total of 45 contact hours (one contact hour equals 45 minutes; 11 contact hours per week).
• The lessons are held three times a week.
• Lessons will comprise lectures, group work, discussion sessions, excursions.

Schedule
The courses are grouped into different time tracks.
Your course will take place in Track B.

Cultural activities
You are welcome to join our cultural program with an excellent selection of excursions, sports activities, and social gatherings. It is the perfect setting for getting to know each other and for experiencing the varous facets of Berlin. There are no additional costs for participation in the activities.

Activities and tours we offer regularly: Federal Chancellery, German Parliament, House of Representatives, Topography of Terror, Political Archive, Museum Island, Kreuzberg Tour, Daytrip to Potsdam, Exhibitions…

Students of all subjects (undergraduate, graduate and Ph.D. candidates) and professionals with an interest in creative writing (German language), culture, literature, and the city of Berlin as well as its surroundings.

Participants in this course should share an interest in literature and life in Berlin, as well as a willingness to explore their own writing and joy in playing with the German language.

For participants who are learning German and for whom German is not the first language, a language level B2 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is required for the understanding of the texts and the discussions in class. A language level of C1 or C2 is recommended.

Mistakes in own texts are corrected but not discussed in class. They do not have any effect on the overall assessment of the participant’s performance. Of course, native speakers are also welcome.

The minimum age requirement is 18 years.