The topics will vary and cover areas not covered by the current roster of classes. Please consult with the instructor for details.

In the debate on the emergence of nationalist regimes and ethno-nationalist movements in Europe, Germany’s fascist past draws particular global scrutiny to its rising right-wing populism.Amid the mainstreaming of anti-immigration and nativist sentiments in the population,contemporary German left-wing social and political movements play a key role in the call toresistance. Situated in Berlin and in Leipzig, part of former East Germany, this course examines the rise of chauvinist extremism and resistance to it in Germany during the past 30 years through literature, film, and other media. It focuses on the specter of nationalism and neo-Nazi violence that has haunted Germany since the end of the Cold War (symbolized by German unification in 1990). This extremism has gained a foothold in electoral politics through the right-wing party AfD (Alternative für Deutschland/ Alternative for Germany). Questions we will explore include:What political, economic and cultural forces have influenced the rise of right-wing extremism in various regions (i.e., East/West)? How have previously social and ideological grass-roots movements and sub-cultures gained political power, reflected in electoral gains of the AfD? What cultural role does the radical left Antifa (embedded within the Autonomen movement) play in the challenge of nationalist ideologies mainstreamed in public discourse? The course will include brief lectures, readings/film viewings, and discussion sessions. In terms of experiential learning, the course will engage with the unique opportunities provided by a study abroad experience, such as museum visits (indoor and outdoor), attending talks with local authors, directors, and curators, and visiting regional historical sites. This class is taught in English on site in Berlin and Leipzig, Germany.