In the German Literature section, students study the literature, culture and various other cultural aspects interwoven in the German speaking area. Although this primarily entails thorough understanding of German texts, it also requires a quest for original themes based on studies of the history of German thought and society. Currently, together with researchers of other universities, faculty members are promoting a collaborative project entitled “Landscapes and Spaces” to develop interdisciplinary studies. The Osaka University Society of German Literature, comprising mainly Graduate School alumni, is committed to various activities including publication of its journal “Dokubungakuho” and research meetings. The Section also supports the annual celebration of Goethe’s birth, held on August 28 in Osaka by the Japan Goethe Association, to promote Japan-Germany cultural exchange in Osaka and nearby regions. For further information, visit the Website. HAYASHI, Masanori (Ph.D.) German Literature; German Classical Literature MITANI, Kenji (M.Lit.) German Literature, Austrian Literature; Study on Modernism in Central Europe NOWAKOWITSCH, Jorg (M.Lit.) Japanologie