The seminar will feature close readings and a critical analysis of key texts of popular culture theory from the beginnings of the 20^th century to today. The seminar aims at facilitating a thorough examination of the philosophical, semiotic, political and cultural diagnostic implications of the approaches presented in the selected texts by thinkers such as Adorno, Hall, Storey, Fiske, Jenkins and others. Texts are not discussed in isolation, but will be embedded in their synchronic and diachronic interdependencies. In this way, the differences and similarities in the various approaches will be identified and the historical development of the discourse of popular culture criticism will become apparent. There will be a moodle room for this seminar containing additional information and the texts. After the registration period, you will be informed by the lecturer regarding further course modalities and the log-in information for moodle!