From the Editor
Via our world-wide network of Goethe-Institutes we asked learners of German the question „Why do you learn German? What impact did your knowledge of German have on your life and your personal/professional development?”
The answers made compelling, interesting and sometimes moving or funny reading. The reasons for learning German range from economic to general interest in languages to parental/institutional pressure love and passion for the language. The range of final outcomes of their study of German is even broader: political enlightenment, joy of immersion in the arts and culture, enhanced chances for research and study, unexpected as well as desired career opportunities, broadening of personal horizons, understanding and acceptance of cultural differences.
Here you will find some essays from the original collection, as well as new ones from people from around the world. We would like to invite you to read, and read between the lines, draw parallels and appreciate the value of language learning as a tool to increase awareness and acceptance of the different cultures in our troubled world.
I would like to thank my colleague Dagmar Pysik at the Goethe-Institut in Sydney for her advice and technical support for this web project.
Eva Schulz Head of Language Department (Educational Cooperation)
Ph.: +61 3 98648925
Fax: +61 3 98648988
eva.schulz@melbourne.goethe.org
