GERST 6610

Fictions of Law: Literature, Philosophy, and Culture in the Long 18th Century

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2020-2021.

This course examines the profound cultural and social changes that took place during the Enlightenment and their aftermath as reflected in German literature and philosophy. The main focus will be on the decay of old European norms and the establishment of new normative frameworks in the wake of the intensified functional differentiation of society that marks the 18th century. During this period, rule following and deviance are foregrounded in literature, ethics, and legal theory. Questions concerning the legitimacy of political change and revolution lead to a new understanding of the law; the state and society; the conscience of the individual; and the role of education and the arts.

When Offered Fall or Spring.

Comments Anchor course.  German reading knowledge is required.

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