In this introductory course, Austrian history will be taught from a global and transnational perspective and is structured chronologically with additional comparative units. Topics range from political, economic, social, and intellectual history, as well as religion, arts, and culture. We will visit four museums in Vienna, thematically covering a range from Roman history, baroque arts to local Viennese history in the early 20th century. 

Students will

• gain basic knowledge of Austrian History from paleolithic times to the 21st century.
• understand Austrian History in its global and transnational context.
• acquire critical reading skills.
• learn basics of scientific writing.

be able to present their own research projects in an academic context

Daily attendance and active participation in class are necessary and expected components of your learning experience and will be assessed weekly (see Participation grade criteria below). You are allowed to miss up to four hours in total (two two-hour sessions or one three-hour session). There is no distinction between “excused” or “unexcused” absences, such as illnesses, doctor’s visits, family matters, job interviews, etc. Beginning with the 5^th missed hour, your course average will drop (a 1% deduction of your final grade per missed hour). Please speak with your instructor if you experience an emergency situation or have extenuating circumstances. Only in very rare instances will your instructor grant exceptions. Four German 205 excursions and their accompanying assignments are required and will take place during class on the following dates: September 14, September 21, October 20, and November 17.

• Lecture
• Discussion of Readings
• Excursions
• Written Assessment
• Oral Presentation

• Participation: 10%
• Three Multiple-Choice exams in class: 30%
• Three Writing Tasks: 30%
• Oral Presentation: 30%