The way we imagine the past and the images we create of the past are not arbitrary. They follow certain patterns and viewing habits, some of which have been handed down over centuries and some of which are completely new, for example through films, series or computer games. We call these patterns historical images and they are very powerful. Images of history are made up of different influences, react to current discourses and events and, last but not least, depend on where they are created and where the recipients are located.

Images of history allow conclusions to be drawn about collective identity constructions and are therefore never neutral. Images of history do not have to be authentic or historically accurate - and this is precisely the crux of the matter for history studies and teacher training. Today's images of history are primarily characterised by pop culture. This is also where young people first come into contact with history - when they play a game or watch a new series, for example. The premature assumption of reality or the idea that "history was like this" is a direct consequence of this type of contact with the past. However, history, eras and events of the past are not static, have never been "true" and are not "carved in stone", but everything we know or think about history is constructed and therefore changeable. Ultimately, it always depends on the formats through which history is communicated and who the addressees are.

The research field of "public history" addresses this type of constructed and communicated history in the public sphere and the various forms of modern history, scrutinises them for their impact and provides perspectives for critically reflecting on images of history and consciously dealing with them.

If we in educational institutions today are given the task of providing children, young people and students with a critical view of history and media skills, then we must first learn to deal competently with these media ourselves.

This lecture series on "History - Pop Culture - Public History" focuses on modern forms of history education at its centre. We will look at images of history in games, series, films, podcasts, comics, VR applications and social media and learn about perspectives for analysing and critically questioning them.

The guests are leading voices from research, mediation and the public, who will introduce us to the world of different types of history in short impulses.

The lecture series is open to the public and interested parties are very welcome.

Please register via Eventbrite.