Content
Storytelling is an ancient form of entertainment and education – from the epics by the Greek poet Homer, the medieval sagas of gods and heroes to orally transmitted folk tales in a broad range of countries. For more than 100 years cinema has been the continuation of this tradition – on celluloid. Therefore, an educational program for children and young adults does not only include the studying of texts, but also films. Since 1996, the International Film Festival “SCHLINGEL” has provided a great forum for this task. It offers young viewers the opportunity to watch international, often independent films that would otherwise be unknown in German cinemas. The films, whose heroes are primarily children and young adults, tell exciting stories and convey profound messages that are both universal, and conversely, culturally specific. More than 160 films from a broad range of countries will be screened during the festival week. In addition, international guests (e.g. film directors, young actors) as well as international juries will be present throughout the festival.
Objectives
In this seminar, students will first be provided with theoretical texts related to children’s films as well as hands-on material with regard to film analysis techniques that will help them to deepen their understanding of films and support them in the creation of educational material for children. Secondly, students of this seminar will learn how to translate the subtitles of a film and be introduced to tasks that are required for the active participation in the film festival. Since the Chair of English Literatures cooperates with the “SCHLINGEL” Film Festival, students of this seminar will be requested to participate actively in support of the festival (23/09 – 30/09/23).
Requirements for credit
Active participation in every session of the class is expected. A presentation or partner or group work is also expected as part of the general course work. A final presentation with poster is required for the course exam.
Set Texts/Required Reading
A reader with seminal material will be provided at the beginning of the semester.
Registration
Please register via e-mail ([email protected]) with your name, semester, student ID until Tuesday, 28 March 2023.
