Who leaves a mark on the city? Who shapes the city and who gets to feel represented in it? Through a blend of historical, sociological, political, geographic, cultural, and anthropological perspectives this course will dissect the intricate layers of representation and diversity within Berlin. Each week, our course will explore a different facet of Berlin's urban landscape, from its status as a diverse metropolis to its role as a global hub of culture and activism. Through different thematic and disciplinary lenses, students will critically examine the concept of representation, interrogating who is seen and heard in Berlin's streets, institutions, and governance structures.
Utilizing a flipped classroom approach and engaging excursions, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Berlin's rich history and contemporary dynamics. Visits to archival institutions, such as the archive of youth culture as well as a museum visit of the city museum of Berlin, will provide firsthand access to the diverse perspectives and narratives that shape the city's collective memory.
By the course's conclusion, students will emerge with a comprehensive understanding of Berlin as a space of representation, equipped with the analytical tools to navigate its complexities. Join us as we uncover the essence of Berlin through an interdisciplinary and intersectional lens, exploring its rich diversity, complex history, current political dynamics and vibrant tapestry of voices and experiences.

Semester: WiSe 2024/25