History of Interwar Germany and German Film (1914-1945)

    Order Description Using any four or more films and/or readings, discuss how masculinity (more accurately, the “crisis of masculinity”) is depicted in interwar German cinema in (1914-1945). (i.e compare Emil Jannings’ character in “The Last Laugh” with his character in “The Blue Angel,” or with Pinneberg in “Little Man, What Now?” or the role of men in the film Nosferatu. Why are the male roles presented in this way? What does it signify in regard to German masculinity in the interwar period? How does this compare to the different ways that women were depicted in German culture during this time? What types of qualities are deemed admirable? Conversely, which characteristics are portrayed in a negative light? How do the portrayals of women change over time? Overall, what do these books and films suggest about women’s status in Germany? Movies: Robert Wiene’s, 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' F. W. Murnau’s, "The Last Laugh" F. W. Murnau’s, "Nosferatu" Fritz Lang’s, "Metropolis" G. W. Pabst’s, "Diary of a Lost Girl" Edgar G. Ulmer, Seymour Nebenzal, "People on Sunday" Books: Hans Fallada, "Little Man What Now?" Keun, "Gilgi"