In this conversation with Holger Kersten, American Studies scholar at the University of Halle, we explore the life and work of Mark Twain, one of the most iconic figures in American literature. We will discuss Twain’s career, his major themes, and his enduring impact on U.S. cultural history. A particular focus will be on his travels through Europe and Germany, which profoundly influenced both his writing and his worldview. Finally, we will look at the modern reception and contemporary reinterpretations of Twain’s texts – and consider why his humor, satire, and social critique continue to resonate today. If ever you had a question concerning this particular author, you will get a chance to voice it.

Holger Kersten:

Prof. Kersten’s academic work focuses on selected core issues in American literature and culture. In the context of literary studies,

particular attention is paid to topics from the 19th century, including research on Mark Twain and naturalist authors of the turn of the century. A central interest lies in researching the forms and functions of nonstandard languages in American literature. The focus of his examination of aspects of American culture is on German-American relations (national images) and issues and problems in the field of the environment and nature. His academic interest in humor research finds its subjects in American literature as well as in popular culture.

Gottfried Haufe:

Gottfried Haufe is a radio presenter, cultural manager and author. As a trained historian, English scholar and educationalist, many of his interests lie in the field of educational and mediation projects of all kinds. However, topics relating to art and culture, social co-operation, innovation and future prospects also play an important role for him.

Ein Nachmittag mit: Cynthia Miller-Idriss
Gespräch zu ihrem neuen Buch – Man Up: The New Misogyny and the Rise of Violent Extremism (Princeton University Press, 2025)

Cynthia Miller-Idriss, eine führende Expertin für Extremismus und Radikalisierung, stellt ihr aktuelles und provokantes Buch Man Up vor. Darin zeigt sie auf, wie Misogynie nicht nur eine Nebenerscheinung, sondern eine zentrale Triebkraft gewalttätigen Extremismus weltweit ist. Mit packenden Geschichten, scharfer Analyse und überzeugender Forschung erklärt sie, wie geschlechterbezogene Ressentiments den Aufstieg von Hassbewegungen befeuern – und warum das Verständnis dieses Zusammenhangs entscheidend ist, um sie zu stoppen.

Der Nachmittag umfasst ein Gespräch mit Miller-Idriss, gefolgt von einer Fragerunde und einer Signierstunde. Bücher können vor Ort erworben werden.

Egal ob Studierende, Lehrende, Politikerinnen, Aktivistinnen oder Interessierte – diese aktuelle Diskussion bietet wertvolle Einblicke in das Zusammenspiel von Geschlecht, Gewalt und Extremismus im heutigen politischen Klima.