The Subprogramme in German Literature and Culture draws upon the academic and educational legacy of German philology at the University of Debrecen, a legacy in which literary studies play a defining role. One major focal point of the subprogramme has been Austrian literary history, strong emphasis is laid on contemporary German language literature, including its cultural, social, institutional and medial contexts. This points towards the other focal point of the subprogramme is cultural and media studies: we are open towards applied cultural studies, providing opportunities for the analysis of contemporary cultural practices, media projects and cultural transfers. This approach allows an extended focus that includes cultural contexts.
The international embeddedness and academic recognition of the subprogramme in German Literature and Culture is indicated by the wide network of our international relations. Particularly important among these relations include co-operations with Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität (Münster), Justus-Liebig-Universität (Gießen), and Universität Bielefeld. Another sign of the esteem in which our subprogramme is held is the honorary doctorate awarded by the University of Debrecen to Prof. Walter Erhart, committed partner and supporter of the doctoral subprogramme.
The academic work of our doctoral students is supported by two academic book series, both affiliated with the subprogramme, published by Peter Lang and Praesens respectively, ensuring the international visibility of our achievements. Further venues that provide publicaton opportunities are online journal Werkstatt and the annual Jahrbuch der ungarischen Germanistik.