LFU:online

Methodically supported, text-oriented interpretation of selected texts; ability to identify and to describe the relation between social, literary and cultural history

Since the 1850s the city has been seen as a place for a new, specific way of living and as an epitome of rapid social and cultural changes. In literature the city does not only function as mere setting, but also as a motive to reflect upon social and philosophical developments. At the same time, urban experiences influence the authors’ language and narrative techniques. Chosen examples of literature from Vienna represent different views on the city, ranging from the city as a place of horror and misery on the one hand and to the city as a place of anonymous freedom on the other hand.

Short frontal lectures, analysis and discussion of the texts based on kick-off presentations and individual reading of the texts

Participation in class and preparation at home (reading of the texts!)
Kick-off presentations, contribution to the discussion
Short exam (discussion of the texts) at the end of semester
Written paper (10 pages)

Johann Nestroy: Das Mädl aus der Vorstadt

Heimito von Doderer: Die Studlhofstiege

Der dritte Mann (Film)

Barbi Markovic: Minihorror

ausgewählte Lyrik (H.C. Artmann, Ernst Jandl, Elfriede Gerstl)

Kurzprosatexte (Helmut Qualtinger, Daniel Spitzer, Peter Altenberg)

cf. Curriculum