131-212 Screening the Holocaust

Formally available as 131-286/386. Students who have completed 131-286 or 131-386 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 25 points of first-year history or Jewish studies, see Prerequisites.

This subject tackles the complex issues that arise in relation to depictions of the atrocities of the Holocaust. Students will view and discuss a variety of documentary and fictional films about the Holocaust. These films will be considered in relation to the history they are depicting, and with an examination of their specific national and political agendas. The subject will study the fate of the Holocaust in popular consciousness and the politics of memorialisation in different national contexts, including Germany, Israel, Poland and America. Students will come to understand critical historical issues relating to the Holocaust, and will be invited to analyse the effectiveness of cinema as a medium for representing history. No prior knowledge of the Holocaust is assumed.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A 1500 word reflective essay 40% (due by 5.00 p.m. Monday 26 July) and a 2500 word research essay 50% (due by 5.00 p.m. Monday 13 September).