The linguistic part of the course provides an introduction to central subdisciplines in German (Germanic) linguistics. These can include morphology, syntax, semantics, phonology, word formation, text linguistics / text grammar, pragmatics, or didactics.

The literature part of the course provides an introduction to central directions in modern literary theory and methods. This can include metaphor theory, genre theory, narrative studies, hermeneutics, psychoanalysis, reception theory, critical theory, postcolonial theory, or gender studies.

TYS307 is a required part of the Master's degree in German.

Knowledge:

The student

• has knowledge of central subdisciplines in Germanic linguistics and literature studies
• has knowledge of subject terminology and concepts related to the subdisciplines
• has knowledge of writing traditions and text conventions in the subdisciplines

Skills:

The student

• can analyze texts using analysis tools from the different subdisciplines
• can independently use subject terminology and concepts related to the subdisciplines
• can formulate texts that follow the traditions and conventions of the subdisciplines
• can discuss relevant theoretical problems, orally and in writing

Competence:

The student

• can independently update and expand their knowledge of the different subdisciplines in Germanic linguistics and literary studies
• is prepared with the writing techniques needed to write a Master¿s thesis

During the semester, there will be four short (ca. 500 word) written assignments (two in each discipline) and two oral presentations (one in each discipline).

All assignments must be approved by the instructor in order to be eligible to take the course exam.

Coursework is valid for one semester following the semester of instruction.

Course assessment is in the form of a 6-hour written exam and an oral exam (c. 30 min.). The written examination can be conducted digitally.

The oral exam consists of a presentation of a self-selected topic related to the required course reading from the discipline that one has not chosen for the written exam (ca. 10 min.) Questions will also be asked about the course reading. The written exam is worth 50% of the final grade and the oral exam is worth 50%.