Cultural Theory: Transnational Processes in Europe

This course provides you with insights into cultural identities and historical processes in Europe, linking ethnological, folkloric and related perspectives to broader theoretical developments in the social sciences and the humanities. It introduces a theoretical depth to analytical categories such as culture, ethnicity, identity, ritual and narration.

On completing the course, the student can: • analyse different types of transnational processes in Europe • explain the complex connections between social and cultural change, and problematise these connections at local and global levels, between individuals, groups and institutions, and between the past and the present • describe ethnological praxis and perspectives on knowledge at a general level • independently follow research and developments in the subject • link cultural expressions and practices in a local context with overarching societal processes • reflect on the use of culture and identity for both emancipatory and oppressive purposes.