Law in Literature Course Overview
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Questions and Answers

What imagery does the man perceive as he nears his death?

  • A cascading waterfall of memories
  • A shadowy figure representing loss
  • A vivid landscape of his past
  • A glimmering light breaking from the law (correct)
  • How is the doorman characterized in the context of the man's aging?

  • As an embodiment of eternal youth (correct)
  • As a figure of wisdom and guidance
  • As a symbol of the natural order
  • As a representation of human suffering
  • What does the doorman convey to the dying man at the end of the narrative?

  • The law is closed to you now.
  • You were never meant to enter. (correct)
  • Your fate is sealed by your choices.
  • You have reached the end of your journey.
  • What theme is primarily depicted through the portrayal of the legal system in the text?

    <p>The futility and complexity of seeking law (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of Kafka's legal critique can be inferred from the man's final moments?

    <p>The law perpetuates despair and exclusion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of the total course assessment is attributed to the in-house essay?

    <p>70% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which literary figure's work is the focus of Unit 1?

    <p>Paul Celan (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is emphasized as a significant literary device used in 'Todesfuge'?

    <p>Alliteration (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the initial temporal adverb introduced in 'Todesfuge'?

    <p>Abends (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of 'Todesfuge,' what does the term 'fugue' most likely refer to?

    <p>A musical composition (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which two characters are repeatedly referenced in 'Todesfuge'?

    <p>Margarete and Sulamith (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of literature does Ferdinand von Schirach's work, Terror, represent?

    <p>Theater (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significance does the adjective usage in 'Todesfuge' carry according to its analysis?

    <p>They are used sparingly for effect. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of using the word 'Meister' in the phrase 'der Tod ist ein Meister aus Deutschland'?

    <p>It conveys that death embodies a form of expertise. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the order of names, Margarete and Sulamith, in the poem signify?

    <p>It illustrates the duality of life and death. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does repetition function within the context of the poem?

    <p>It emphasizes the inevitability of death. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the concept of 'fugal structure' play in the poem?

    <p>It adds complexity to the poem's themes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of 'Terror', what main ethical dilemma is presented?

    <p>The morality of sacrificing one for many. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the presiding judge speaking directly to the audience in 'Terror'?

    <p>To establish a connection with the audience's morals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which title among the further reading options best addresses Paul Celan's perspectives?

    <p>Celan's Universality (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'übergesetzlicher Notstand' refer to in the context of legal discussions?

    <p>An emergency that surpasses legal boundaries. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Lars Koch primarily accused of during the trial?

    <p>Unlawful shooting of a civilian aircraft (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which argument did the defence lawyer use regarding the Luftsicherheitsgesetz?

    <p>It allowed for the shooting down of hijacked planes in extreme situations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the public prosecutor, what was one of the main criticisms of Lars Koch's decision?

    <p>It was a decision made without considering human life. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant question does Franziska Meiser ask regarding her husband's death?

    <p>Is the loss of a single life justified for the sake of many? (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Lars Koch reflect on the Bundesverfassungsgericht's decision regarding the Luftsicherheitsgesetz?

    <p>He thinks it complicates decision-making in crisis situations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What core theme did the public prosecutor emphasize in her closing argument?

    <p>The moral responsibility of military personnel. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the central concern addressed in the 'Weichenstellerfall' mentioned by the public prosecutor?

    <p>The ethical dilemmas faced by actors in crisis situations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of his training does Lars Koch consider crucial in making his decision?

    <p>The legal implications of shooting down an aircraft. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the public prosecutor's stance on the separation of law and morality?

    <p>They must be strictly separated. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the public prosecutor, what is essential for a free society to survive in times of terror?

    <p>Consistently respecting human dignity and principles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What argument does the defense lawyer use regarding the concept of 'the lesser evil'?

    <p>It is sometimes necessary to protect the greater good. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the conviction of Lars Koch, what notable legal precedent is referenced?

    <p>The Queen versus Dudley and Stephens. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary conclusion that led to the acquittal of Lars Koch?

    <p>The necessity defense was successfully argued. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What ethical question is central to the discussion of Lars Koch's actions?

    <p>Is it acceptable to kill to save others? (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best defines a parable, as referenced in the context of Kafka's works?

    <p>A short moral story that conveys a lesson. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What thematic element do Kafka's stories "Der Schlag ans Hoftor" and "Vor dem Gesetz" share?

    <p>They explore the complexities of law and human existence. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action does the sister take in relation to the door, and how do the villagers react?

    <p>She knocks on the door, causing the villagers to panic. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the arrival of the Reiter affect the story's atmosphere?

    <p>The arrival increases tension and fear among the characters. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the narrator's initial reaction to the horsemen's request?

    <p>He shows deep fear and attempts to evade them. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is the doorman's response to the Mann vom Lande characterized?

    <p>He consistently deters the man from entry. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key theme does the sentence 'das Gesetz soll doch jedem und immer zugänglich sein' highlight?

    <p>The belief in universal access to legal justice. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does time manifest in the narrative, particularly regarding the Mann vom Lande’s waiting period?

    <p>The stretching of time emphasizes his frustration and despair. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What underlying message is conveyed through the relationship between the characters and the legal system?

    <p>The characters' struggles illustrate the alienation from the law. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the final line of the text?

    <p>It presents a chilling conclusion that reflects the futility of the man's quest. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Law in Literature Course

    A literary analysis course focusing on how legal concepts and systems are portrayed and discussed in literature.

    Paul Celan's "Todesfuge"

    A poem exploring themes of death and displacement, using a musical fugue structure.

    Literary Analysis

    Examining a text for its meaning and themes, identifying literary devices and techniques.

    Musical Fugue

    A musical form with multiple voices interwoven to create a complex texture.

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    "Schwarze Milch der Frühe"

    A famous opening line of Celan's poem, describing dark, early morning milk.

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    Temporal Adverbs

    Words or phrases that describe time, such as "abends" (in the evening).

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    Spatial Adverbs

    Words or phrases describing location or space, within poetry.

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    Course Assessment

    The evaluation method for the Law in Literature course, comprised of continuous assessments (30%) and a final essay (70%).

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    Why 'Meister' in "Tod" poem?

    'Meister' (master) suggests a powerful, controlling force of death, implying death is dominant and skillful.

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    Effect of 'Meister' use?

    It emphasizes death's agency and competence, creating a chilling and authoritative atmosphere.

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    Interpretation of final two lines?

    The final lines in the poem convey intense suffering, loss, and an enduring mark on history.

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    Significance of Margarete/Sulamith order?

    The order is significant. It emphasizes a particular pain and the loss of two specific individuals.

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    Repetition's role in 'Tod' poem?

    It builds tension and emphasizes crucial events, reflecting the repetitiveness of suffering.

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    Connection between repetition and fugal structure?

    The repetition in the poem mirrors the intertwined melodies characteristic of fugal music.

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    Der Angeklagte

    The accused person in a legal case.

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    das Bundesverfassungsgericht

    Germany's highest court, deciding constitutional law.

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    Luftsicherheitsgesetz

    The German Aviation Security Law, which governs how to deal with hijacked planes and potential terrorism.

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    Bundesverfassungsgericht

    The German Constitutional Court, the supreme court in Germany that safeguards constitutional rights.

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    Lars Koch's decision

    Lars Koch's decision to shoot down a hijacked plane to prevent a potential terrorist attack.

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    Defence lawyer's argument

    The defence lawyer argued that Koch's decision was justified, emphasizing potential harm to others and limited constitutional principles in exceptional circumstances.

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    Franziska Meiser's question

    Franziska Meiser, whose husband died in the plane crash, asked if other options were explored before shooting down the plane.

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    Trolley Cart Problem

    A hypothetical ethical scenario where a person is forced to choose between two outcomes, one potentially causing more harm than the other.

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    Public prosecutor's argument

    The public prosecutor argued against Koch's decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights even in extreme situations, and the potential for other solutions. They also highlighted the ethical dilemma and the Trolley Cart Problem as a relevant comparison.

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    Importance of Franziska Meiser's question

    Franziska Meiser's question about alternative options was important because it raised the debate on proportionality and the ethical considerations of shooting down a hijacked plane with potential passengers onboard.

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    Recht und Moral

    The public prosecutor argues that law and morality should be strictly separated. This implies that legal decisions should be made based on the letter of the law, rather than on ethical considerations.

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    Art. 1 of the Grundgesetz

    This article of the German Basic Law states that human dignity is inviolable. This means that every person has inherent value and worth, regardless of their actions.

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    The Public Prosecutor's Argument

    The public prosecutor argues that respecting human dignity is crucial for the survival of a free society, especially during times of terror. She believes that adhering to legal principles, even in challenging situations, is essential.

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    The Defence Lawyer's Plea

    The defence lawyer argues that sometimes, it's necessary to choose the 'lesser evil' to minimize harm. He brings up examples like shooting down a hijacked plane to prevent many deaths.

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    Key Question: Killing for the Greater Good

    The text explores the ethical dilemma of whether it's justifiable to kill a few people to save many others (e.g., the trolley cart problem).

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    The Queen versus Dudley and Stephens

    This famous case involved sailors who resorted to cannibalism to survive a shipwreck. The case is relevant to the Lars Koch trial because it raises similar questions about the ethical boundaries of survival.

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    Lars Koch's Conviction

    Lars Koch was convicted primarily because the court determined that there was no imminent threat justifying his actions. The court also emphasized the importance of respecting human dignity.

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    Lars Koch's Acquittal

    The potential acquittal of Lars Koch was partially based on arguments about the 'lesser evil' principle. However, the court ultimately emphasized the importance of legal principles and not simply the number of lives saved.

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    The Man and the Doorman

    In Kafka's 'Before the Law', the man ages and dies while the doorman remains unchanged. This contrast highlights the futility of the man's pursuit of justice and the law's impassive nature.

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    The 'Unquenchable Glow'

    As the man dies, he sees a 'glow' emanating from the law's door. This represents the unattainable allure and promise of justice, alluring yet ultimately out of reach.

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    Doorman's Final Words

    The doorman tells the dying man, "No one else could ever be admitted here, since this gate was made only for you." This suggests the man's entire life was consumed by the unattainable pursuit of justice, leaving him with nothing but a personal, individual experience.

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    Law's Depiction

    The Law in 'Before the Law' is portrayed as an unyielding, impenetrable, and ultimately uncaring force. It is inaccessible, indifferent to the man's plight, and exists only as a symbolic barrier.

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    Legal System Depicted

    Kafka's story reveals the legal system's stark and unforgiving nature, focusing on the man's hopeless pursuit of justice and his ultimate failure. It highlights the system's potential for creating isolation and despair, rather than providing meaningful access to justice.

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    What is the main theme of "Vor dem Gesetz"?

    The main theme is access to justice and the complexities of the legal system. It explores the idea that justice might be elusive and unattainable, even when desperately sought after.

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    What is the role of the doorman?

    The doorman acts as a gatekeeper to the Law, representing an obstacle to accessing justice. He symbolizes authority and the power to control access.

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    How does the man's behavior change over time?

    The man becomes increasingly desperate and desperate to get in, his initial determination slowly fading into resignation. He loses hope and accepts his place outside the Law.

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    Why is the final line of the story chilling?

    The final line states that the doorman "was really intended for this man alone, and now he's going to shut it." It suggests that the man's entire life was a futile attempt to reach the Law, and he was ultimately meant to remain outside.

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    'Das Gesetz soll doch jedem und immer zugänglich sein'

    This quote translates to "The Law shall be accessible to everyone, always." It emphasizes the idea of justice being accessible to all, but in the story, this proves to be an illusion.

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    How does the story depict time?

    Time is depicted as a long, relentless journey for the man. It emphasizes the futility of his pursuit and the slow deterioration of his hope.

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    How does the story portray the legal system?

    The story presents a legal system that is inaccessible, confusing, and ultimately uncaring for the individual. It criticizes the potential for injustice in systems that are not transparent or fair.

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    What is the moral of the story?

    The story suggests that access to justice might be a myth, and individuals can be trapped in a system that seems unattainable. It warns against blind faith in institutions and encourages critical thinking about the nature of law.

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    Study Notes

    Course Overview

    • The course covers Law in Literature, focusing on specific texts and authors
    • Unit 1: Paul Celan, "Todesfuge" - Includes an introduction to Paul Celan and analysis of the poem
    • Unit 2: Ferdinand von Schirach, "Terror" - Includes an introduction to the author and analysis of the play
    • Unit 3: Franz Kafka - Focuses on Kafka's works, including "Der Schlag ans Hoftor," "Es war im Sommer," and "Vor dem Gesetz"
    • The course is assessed via continuous assessment (30%) and an in-house essay (70%)

    Unit 1: Paul Celan, "Todesfuge"

    • Watch video: Paul Celan: An Introduction on Canvas
    • Watch video: Paul Celan reading "Todesfuge" on Canvas/YouTube
    • Understand the concept of a fugue
    • Analyze the poem, considering the musical analogy
    • Identify temporal and spatial adverbs
    • Identify pronouns (personal and possessive)
    • Understand the image of "Schwarze Milch der Frühe"
    • Note down key questions for discussion

    Unit 2: Ferdinand von Schirach, "Terror"

    • Watch video: Ferdinand von Schirach: An Introduction on Canvas
    • Watch assigned video clip: The Moral Side of Murder
    • Understand the key questions Michael Sandel asks
    • Prepare notes and reasons for answers
    • Understand the trolley problem/tram
    • Note down quotation relevant to class discussion

    Unit 3: Franz Kafka

    • Watch video: Franz Kafka: Introduction on Canvas
    • Read "Der Schlag ans Hoftor" / "Es war im Sommer..." and make notes on:
      • Atmosphere
      • Setting changes
      • Relationship between narrator/sister
      • Sister's knock/door
      • Village reaction
      • Legal terms in the story
    • Read "Vor dem Gesetz" and make notes on:
      • Description of characters (appearance, behaviour)
      • Main theme of access and time
      • Man's attempts to enter
      • Doorman's responses
      • Importance of final lines

    Additional Information

    • Contact details for the course instructor are provided, including email and telephone number
    • Course materials (reader, study guide, and videos) are accessible on Canvas
    • In-house essay is scheduled for week 12 (November 29th)
    • Further reading and listening materials are suggested for more in-depth study

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    Description

    Explore the intersection of law and literature through the analysis of notable works by Paul Celan, Ferdinand von Schirach, and Franz Kafka. This quiz assesses your understanding of the themes, characters, and literary techniques employed in these texts. Prepare to delve into complex narratives and their implications in society.

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