Civilisation of the Dutch-speaking countries : cultural aspects [ LGERM1335 ]

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A  good knowledge of Dutch, both spoken and written. 

The course studies the major cultural, artistic and political trends and developments in the European countries that have German, English or Dutch as a principal language (intellectual life, visual arts, music, architecture, etc.).

General survey of the cultural developments of the German-/ English-/ Dutch-speaking countries. By the end of the course, students are expected to have acquired an understanding of the culture of the European countries where German/ English/ Dutch is a major language.

Assessment: oral or written exam based on both the lectures and required reading

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This course tries to define the cultural identity or identities of the countries concerned: - The Civilisation of Dutch-Speaking Europe (1335): the cultural history of Flanders and the Netherlands. Particular attention will be paid to the major currents in Flemish and Dutch painting, from the Flemish Primitive painters to Cobra. The course starts in the 14th century, which can be seen as the start of a Dutch and Flemish artistic identity, and moves on to our own day and age. The major artistic movements, such as the Flemish Primitive painters, the 17th century Dutch artists, the Flemish Baroque, the Hague School, the Flemish expressionists, 'The Style' and Cobra will be dealt with in more detail.

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Study aids: reading list, text syllabus; one-day excursion.