German 174: German Through Translation: Perspectives and Practice

Instructor: Yasemin Yildiz

In this course, you will both learn about translation and practice it in a variety of ways, thereby also developing your German language skills in new ways. First, we will see how important translations have been in shaping the German language and German cultural identity more broadly. Second, we will read fictional and non-fictional texts that creatively engage with as well as pose challenges to translation. Finally, we will consider the possibilities and challenges of machine translation in the digital age and inventively imagine translation scenes of the future. Throughout the class, you will actively practice translation and reflect on your process. Translation exercises will also serve as a means to review crucial grammar points, while lively in-class discussions of the readings and exercises will continue to develop your spoken German. Taught in German.