GER3642

From wolves to witches, Rumpelstiltskin to Rapunzel, the fairy-tale tradition of the German-speaking world is filled with rich imagery, familiar themes, and political and social subversion. Of enduring popularity and as constant subjects of reimagination and revitalization, these tales and their retellings serve as a unique lens through which to view the social, political, and cultural contexts in which they were produced. Through a carefully curated selection of Grimms’ tales, we have the opportunity to discuss tales in depth. We discuss the transformation of the Grimms’ tales from the oral tradition of storytelling told in spinning rooms, saloons, while doing domestic chores to stories told to (and for) children, raising anti-French sentiment during the Napoleonic wars, teaching morality and gender norms. With an eye to underlying perceptions and values regarding class, race, gender, nation, nature, religion, and society, both in the first half of the 19th century and in recent years, we will critically engage with these works and contextualize them within a variety of theoretical frameworks. Our investigations will center on tales in a variety of media forms (including literature, film and television) and from a diverse array of voices (in gender, race and sexuality). In recognizing and analyzing the tale’s influences in literature, film, poetry, and pop culture, we will begin to appreciate the fairy tale’s enduring legacy and its place within the literary and cultural history of the German-speaking world and beyond.

No prior knowledge of German is required. All readings will be provided in English translation.

Arts/Humanities, Global Perspectives

Periodic Spring