Syllabus

German II: The History of German Language and Literature

Code
GTY3J6
Points
7.5 Credits
Level
First Cycle
School
School of Language, Literatures and Learning
Subject field
German (TYA)
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
German1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1G1F
Approved
Approved, 04 February 2026.
This syllabus is valid from 04 February 2026.
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Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • outline the main features of the history of the German language
  • reflect on and theorise about the development of the German language and its dialectal variation
  • explain the representation and function of German-language literature in different historical periods
  • explain the relationship between linguistic, literary, and societal development
  • apply methods of literary analysis and describe literary-historical genres and concepts.

Course Content

The course focuses on the main features of language development from the Germanic languages to modern German, including its dialectal variations. Representative texts from each historical period are studied from a linguistic and cultural-historical perspective. A selection of literary works (poetry, prose, and drama) is read and analysed in relation to historical context, contemporary relevance, and literary representation and function.

Assessment

  • Active participation in seminars
  • Written assignments
  • Oral presentations
  • Oral examination

Grades

The grading scale used for the final course grade is U–VG.

 

Grades are reported as follows:

  • German II: The History of German Language and Literature - 7.5 Credits | U–VG

Entry Requirements

  • German: Written Language Proficiency I, 7.5 credits, German: German Grammar, 7.5 credits and German: Modern German Literature, 7.5 credits

Other Information

This course overlaps the courses German Literature and the History of Literature in Germany, 7.5 credits and German:The History of German Language and Culture and Academic Writing, 7.5 credits.

This course cannot be counted towards the same degree along with courses that have equivalent content.

If the student has received a decision/recommendation granting study support from Dalarna University because of a disability, then the examiner has the right to offer an alternative examination arrangement. The examiner takes into account the objectives in the course syllabus when deciding whether the examination can be adapted in accordance with the decision/recommendation.