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SoSe 22: Berlin - City of Water

Gregor Wolfgang Hens

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Topic: While Berlin is not as obviously a water-city, or "hydropolis", as Venice, Amsterdam or the sinking city of Jakarta, water is nonetheless ubiquitous. The Spree River, as well as the groundwater itself, are remnants of a wide stream that formed during the last glacial period, around 20.000 B.C., and flowed from the Warsaw area in the east to the Elbe river in the west. By the time Berlin was founded, this wide, ancient river had turned into a swamp. During the city's rapid expansion in the 18th and 19th centuries, numerous canals were built, the water management and wastewater disposal systems were among the finest in the world. Today, rising groundwater pushes up into construction excavations, subway tunnels and basements, and contamination and heavy rains associated with climate change cause contemporary problems. The lives of Berliners are, as poet Oskar Loerke put it in 1911, "dregs, submerged debris / stirred by the water's will and mind". Today, the city's residents cool off in lakes, and lounge on beaches, bridges and near fountains. Following international trends, attempts are made to establish leasure swimming in the historical city center. Program: The city's relationship to water is not just a matter of hydrogeology, engineering or urban planning, it also shapes the cultural perception. Water has been the subject of many films, paintings and literary texts. We will explore this angle extensively, looking for concrete as well as symbolic and mythological meaning. Through student presentations, we will explore individual bodies of water, discover water infrastructure and research the city's current water management. Swimmers are encouraged to "sample" various bathing sites and report on their experience. As part of the course, I will offer two excursions outside the regularly scheduled course time: on Saturday, June 4, and Saturday, July 2. You should be available for both. Can I take this course? Yes, if you are interested in history, literature and culture, and willing to explore the city in ways that go beyond the usual tourist experience. The course has no further prerequisites. Requirements and Grading: In order to earn 5 ECTS-points, you will have to attend at least 80% of course meetings; read assigned texts (approximately ten pages a week); actively participate in course and group discussions; prepare one short (10 min.) presentation; and pass a written final examination. close

14 Class schedule

Regular appointments

Wed, 12:00 - 14:00 14 Class schedule

Wed, 2022-04-20 12:00 - 14:00

Lecturers:
Gregor Hens