What's included?

Swedish culture in a comparative and historical context

On this course, you will examine the history of modern Sweden’s culture and society. Nations and national cultures are made, not born – both by national elites and through the gaze of outsiders. What has been defined as Swedish culture, what was preserved, what was rejected? Who was considered part of the nation and who was defined as an "outsider"? How might neutrality during WWII, progressive gender politics and multiculturalism be used to define (or challenge) the particular strengths of Swedish society? This course turns to cultural sources to understand the roots of Swedish culture and society, as well as the nature of Swedish "otherness".

Course design

The course consists of seminars and you will write analytical papers based on the course content. There may also be excursions to places of cultural or social relevance. Examination takes the form of active participation in seminars, shorter written assignments and a longer, take-home essay.