<p>German, as a language, is fairly easy to pick up what I call 'tourist' German. The difficulty in the initial classes is actually rather surprising -- German 1 is very easy. German 2 is actually a real killer, because its basically German 1 on speed, but you learn a lot. It eases up in 3 again, and then in 4 it becomes fairly epic. I took 4 during the summer though, so your mileage may vary.</p>
<p>The major itself is actually fairly difficult. You are expected to demonstrate a level of academic fluency, if not conversational. If you do decide to major in German, I highly recommend doing a study abroad in Germany. You actually can get higher grades more easily there than at Cal, and you will learn more. I went with German 1-4, a business German course, and a year of upper divs in lit and language under my belt. had a rough, but brief adjustment. Afterwards, it was pure awesome. Best year of my college career, and Germany is central to the rest of Europe, so hop on the plane or train and go go go during the breaks. </p>
<p>The more history oriented German classes are taught in English at Cal, and it's actually to your detriment to not try studying abroad, because there is something almost metaphysical about learning the language and absorbing the culture. It's also wise because there are philosophical and literary concepts in the German canon, which to say the least, do not have clear translations in English. </p>
<p>That being said: </p>
<p>I'd hardly call German R5A/B a 'German' course, as it is simply an introduction to the literature of that culture and its usually the funner stuff. Though, I'd highly recommend it over any Comp Lit with Moore. That woman... <em>shudder</em>. Thank your lucky stars if she is no longer there. IF you can get into the German or Scandinavian course to fufill the basic lit/engish requirement -- by all means, do it.</p>
