Aesthetics and mediality of communication

 

As a special system of communication, aesthetic and non-linguistic forms of expression represent a key part in the processes of cultural identity formation. Their examination contributes to grasping cultural dynamics, which are being reflected, fostered or also questioned and thus often modified by these forms of communication. To be able to describe these modifications and include them in the discussion of these dynamics, the Faculty interrelates and advances methods of cultural studies and established philological methods. In this way, the Faculty contributes to the methodological development of philological cultural studies that are able to respond to the current political, social and bioecological challenges, and thus endeavours to add to the range of approaches taken by literature studies and cultural studies. This is reflected in its participation in the emerging research paradigms such as ecocriticism, environmental and medical/health humanities, as well as cultural sustainability studies.