Comparative Media: Approaches & Case Studies

Comparative media is an emergent approach in media and film theory. This course, taught by scholars from German and anthropology, introduces students to cutting edge research in media drawing on history, film & media theory, sound studies, literature, anthropology & visual culture. It adopts a comparative approach to media as machines and aesthetic practices by examining contemporary media in relation to the introduction of earlier technologies. In doing so it de-centers media theory, extending our focus beyond the U.S. and Europe by examining other cultural locations of media innovation and appropriation.