This course investigates artifacts and events of current popular culture (art, political protests, graphic novels, musical (sub)cultures, film, and soccer) for their representation of contemporary German speaking countries. Students examine, research, and evaluate the various "texts" to understand how they are influenced by and conversely shape negotiations of nationality, identity, gender, class, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and class. Through this analysis, the course determines how texts illuminate and question present-day aspects of social and political affairs. Prerequisite: GRMN 203 or higher or placement.