PS 2st., Do 14-16
BA Teilgebiet 1.2., A4, A7; MAIAS elective; Lehramt
SoSe 2015
Universität Bayreuth
This seminar sets its focus on George Orwell’s most famous works that reflect his critical attitude towards social conditions and political events of his time. In order to be able to trace his development as a critic of colonialism, capitalism and totalitarianism, we will study important phases in his life and discuss them in connection to important socio-political events such as World War II or the Spanish Civil War that had a lasting important on his self and his writing career. The analysis of the primary works will be accompanied by secondary literature to get a deeper insight into content and context. To emphasize the importance of his works, we will also discuss Orwellian tendencies in the 21st century such as the “Big Brother” TV shows or the widespread use of CCTV systems.
Texts to be obtained by students:
George Orwell, Burmese Days
George Orwell, Down und Out in Paris and London
George Orwell, Animal Farm
George Orwell, Nineteen Eighty-Four
Course Overview: George Orwell (pdf-file)
Books available in the “Semesterapparart”: SA ZB 238
