When we refer to German Studies, or Germanistik, it is not only about memorizing the language. It is the beginning of immersing oneself in a rich culture, a fascinating history, and much more that is associated with it. The German language, as we know it today, has had an interesting journey. It started from Old High German, and one could say it is a "romantic" language. A monumental moment in its development was when Martin Luther translated the Bible. This step helped to consolidate various dialects and unify them into the single language we know today.
What’s really surprising is the sheer number of dialects that still exist. Who knew that the Bavarians, Swabians, or Low Germans could be so different, with some regions even adopting distinct names? Most people tend to understand and use Standard German in educational institutions and the media; however, these dialects breathe life into the language.
Germanistik goes beyond borders, considering literature and politics as factors that shaped societies and the emotional aspects of people all over the world. Authors such as Goethe, Kafka, and Brecht did not simply tell us stories or read books to us. They were deeply concerned with the meaning of life, self-identity, and culture. The works of these individuals tell us how language was not only a part of their history but also a reflection of their way of thinking.
Additionally, there is more to studying German than just attending school. Germany’s presence in the world today as a political, economic, and technological power makes acquiring knowledge of its language and culture extremely beneficial. It creates opportunities for those who seek to interact globally.
Ultimately, German Studies is not limited to the simple mastery of a new set of words. It is about creating a relationship with a civilization that has shaped much of the contemporary world—its past, art, and philosophy.
Leyli HUDAYBERGENOVA,
a student of Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages.