B2/C1 Weimar: Glitzer, Krise, Bauhaus (in-person - Weds. PM)

What happens when a society is rebuilding, rethinking, and reinventing itself all at once? Welcome to Weimar Germany—a time of bold ideas, artistic experimentation, and striking contradictions.

In this summer course, we explore the dynamic cultural and intellectual landscape of Germany between the two World Wars. From the sharp wit of cabaret to the revolutionary aesthetics of the Bauhaus, from the controversy surrounding “degenerate art” to influential poetry and the development of modern civil law—this course offers a rich, multifaceted perspective on a society in transition.

What’s the focus?

Working with a range of authentic and adapted materials, we will engage in in-depth discussions and analysis in German on key aspects of the Weimar era:

• Cabaret and urban culture – satire, politics, and social critique
• Bauhaus – design principles and their lasting impact
• “Entartete Kunst”– ideology, censorship, and artistic freedom***
• Poetry and literature – language as a reflection of instability and change
• Zivilrecht (civil law) – legal structures in a modernizing society

What makes this course special?

• Advanced language practice – expand vocabulary and refine expression through discussion and analysis
• Interdisciplinary perspective – connect language learning with history, art, and cultural studies
• Challenging but supportive environment – engage critically while building confidence
• Thoughtful summer pace – intellectually stimulating without being overwhelming

Who is it for?

For learners at B2–C1 level who want to deepen their German while exploring complex cultural and historical topics in a meaningful way.

Step into a world of experimentation and tension, where ideas collided and creativity flourished under pressure.
Weimar is not just history—it’s a lens for understanding modern culture.

*** The Minneapolis Institute of Art exhibit 'Modern Art and Politics in Germany 1910 - 1945: Masterworks from the Neue Nationalgalerie Berlin' is on display through July 19, 2026.  Seeing the exhibit is not required to take the class but provides a interesting complementary event to the class.

Meeting Time:

This is an in-person class that meets at the Germanic-American Institute (301 Summit Ave) on 4 Wednesday evenings from 6:30pm - 8:00 pm. 

Textbook:

No textbook needed.

Minimum Enrollment:

If there are too few students registered to run a class section, the Director of Language Education will contact the student(s) in the week prior to the session’s start date to discuss other class options.

Questions?

Contact Language Education at [email protected] or call 651-222-7027 ext. 101.