LFU:online

Institut für Amerikastudien Institut für Amerikastudien

Mag. Dr. Erwin Feyersinger Mag. Dr. Erwin Feyersinger

610010

Discourse/Identity: American Cultures: David Lynch's _Twin Peaks_ as Prototypical Quality TV Series

PS 2

5

wöch.

semestral

Englisch

_Twin Peaks_, originally aired in 1990 and 1991, is a highly unique television series. Both a popular and critical success, it achieved high ratings and a strong fanbase despite (or because of) its eccentric and artistic leanings. The influence of _Twin Peaks_ on contemporary quality television is evident. Its high production values, dark mood, and oddball characters paved the way for such critically acclaimed series as _The X-Files_ (1993–2002), _The Sopranos_ (1999–2007), and _Dexter_ (since 2006). In this course, we will take a focused look at the anatomy of a dramatic television series. We will study the production, the marketing, the worldwide distribution, the reception (especially its cult following), and the lasting influence of _Twin Peaks_. We will discuss its highly idiosyncratic creator David Lynch and his work. A close textual analysis will furthermore reveal specific formal and dramatic features such as visual leitmotifs and cliffhangers. All 30 episodes of the series and the film _Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me_ are required viewing. Episodes will be available on DVD. Throughout the semester, we will also organize regular screenings after class.

Lecture inputs, research, presentations, discussion.

Active participation, written analyses, presentation, research paper (10–15 pages).

Course materials and selected primary and secondary sources will be posted on e-campus.

Anmeldungsvoraussetzung/en im BA: positive Beurteilung des Pflichtmoduls 19 Entspricht im Lehramtsstudium (344): PS2: American Culture
Beginn: 8.3.2011