Based on a linguistic typology of linguistic functions, the project defines ‘conversation’ as a specific form (a genre) of oral communication: The self-referentiality of statements within it sets conversation in contrast with literature. This typological approach is confronted with analyses of literary texts to ask how conversation becomes the subject of literature and literature the subject of conversation – and how the relationship is mediated concerning the communicative and cultural memory articulated in each case.
learn more
‘Successful’ conversation avoids insisting on a specific “truth” and strong emotions. It mixes the most diverse discourses and suspends the ‘interest’ solidified in them. Ideals such as ‘grace’ also place conversation in the realm of (autonomous) aesthetics. The project assumes that such an approach to conversation has been effective since the 17th century and is interested in the relationship between German-language literature and conversation from then until today. In doing so, it asks the following questions: How did ‘conversation’ establish itself historically in contrast to other forms of oral communication and how does it relate to the aesthetics of poetry in each period? What function does conversation fulfill as a form of discourse strongly governed by conventions, and what is the function of cultural heterogeneity and multilingualism in this? Which concepts of ‘actuality’ and ‘authenticity’ are opposed to a ‘conversational tone’ at different points in time and what role does literature play in this? Is there any truth to the hypothesis of a contemporary ‘decline’ of conversation or are its phenomena still part of popular culture?