The centrality of interculturality in teaching literature in foreign language classes: A case study of German at the University of Zimbabwe

Abstract

The last decade has seen the burgeoning of a field of  academic inquiry focusing on the importance of literature in the teaching and learning of foreign languages. This article investigates the role played by intercultural competence and intercultural dialogue in teaching literature in German language classes at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ). This article interrogates how literature allows for the negotiation of diverse intercultural issues which are not only important in ensuring students are able to communicate across cultures but also improve their linguistic competencies in the foreign language. Theoretically drawing on the work of Kreutzer, this article proposes a didactical approach which can be used in the teaching of foreign languages using literature

Keywords: Intercultural Approach, double look (Doppeltblicken), literature, culture, foreign languages, teaching