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Cursus: GE3V17053
GE3V17053
Imagining Europe: American constructions of the Old World, 1776-present
Cursus informatie
CursuscodeGE3V17053
Studiepunten (EC)7,5
Cursusdoelen
This course will employ an interdisciplinary approach to study of collective images as they figure in cultural expressions such as intellectual discourse, political rhetoric, the popular press, the literary and visual arts, and popular culture.
Overview of the most important developments and changes in the American perceptions of Europe, 1776-present
Ability to place perceptions of Europe in the American intellectual and political tradition
Ability to use appropriate academic concepts such as national identity, cultural nationalism, cultural transfer and othering
The ability to analyze and understand cultural texts in their historical context
Inhoud
This course examines how images of the “Old World” were constructed in the United States to define the nation in contrast with the political and cultural traditions of Europe. The tension between the American ideal of exceptionalism and adherence to an essentialist “Europeanism” continues to affect transatlantic relations. Students examine how these contrasting collective images were transformed during the twentieth century as the United States became a global power that influenced Europe. Examples of questions that will be analyzed are: Which images of Europe have dominated American public discourse? How did the geopolitical, political and economic changes during the American Century affect the way Americans repositioned themselves towards the Old World? After studying the literature, students will explore one case study in a small research project.

Early Exit option (5 ECTS)
 
Exchange students who are required to return to their home university before January, are allowed to choose an Early Exit option for this course. The Early Exit option means that students can finish the course before Christmas break, receiving 5 ECTS for the course. Students must make arrangements with the course coordinator at the start of the course.
 
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