230567 An Introduction to South Africa (S) (SoSe 2007)

In the second half of the 20th century, South Africa underwent a metamorphosis. A former a police state which had systematically denied the great majority of its citizens their basic human rights became a democracy with one of the most progressive constitutions in the world; a transition achieved without the widespread civil war many had anticipated. Nevertheless, the new South Africa is facing severe problems: poverty, unemployment, crime and AIDS, amongst many others. This is a bleak picture, and one that is in glaring contrast to the discourses of gorgeous beaches and exotic animals generated by the South African tourist industry.

This seminar is a starting point for considering the complexity and the contradictions of South Africa. Using a variety of materials which reflect a great diversity of perspectives, participants will work towards constructing an understanding of South Africa for themselves. This being a seminar in PM 3, special attention will be paid to the role of Britain and the British in the country's history as well as the English language in South Africa today.

Assessment will be by class test and marks for written reports on research topics.