The Introduction to Polish Culture course seeks to immerse students in the dynamic cultural identity of contemporary Poland, emphasizing its mentality, values, traditions, and evolving societal dynamics. Through a thoughtfully curated selection of cultural texts—including literature, films, documentaries, and artworks from both elite and popular spheres—students will gain insights into Poland’s social and political transformations of recent decades. The inclusion of scholarly commentary enriches their understanding, allowing for a nuanced exploration of Poland’s uniqueness and its connections to broader global and comparative cultural contexts.

Throughout the semester, students will engage with several key questions: How have Poland’s unique historical circumstances influenced its contemporary culture and identity? How do stereotypes about Poland and Poles, as well as the country’s external image, align or contrast with its evolving societal values and self-perception? How do modern cultural texts—such as literature, film, and art—reflect and challenge Poland’s traditions, societal transformations, and global context?