Today association football is the most popular game in the world both in terms of the number of people who watch it and the number of people who play it. But where, when and how did it all start and how did it develop? Billy Smith and Emma Jones will lay out the historical facts in this interactive presentation.

Germany can seem quite confusing - and not just at first glance. This course offers an insight into the political system of today's Germany. We start by clarifying the basic structures and rules of the Federal Republic and its "Länder" - as well as formative cultural patterns. This enables us to take a look at relevant political forces, parties and personalities. Thus, we can discuss how German politics work (and where it may lead). Participation is possible without having attended the first part of the course.

This course aims to provide an overview of German social reality and everyday culture that goes beyond clichés and stereotypes. We will cover a broad range of aspects, from economic and sociological facts to intellectual, religious, and cultural traditions. Of course, we will talk about beer, sausages, football, and Autobahn, but also about less famous aspects like German humour, media, and the education system. We will also explore the things that participants find puzzling in their daily life in Germany. Participation is possible without having attended the previous parts of the course.