On the Theory of a Transcultural Francophony. The Concept of Wolfgang Welsch and its Didactic Interest

Abstract

What distinguishes transculturality and how can it be analysed as an academic discourse? Starting with Wolfgang Welsch's definition of “transculturality”, this article first reproduces the historical evolution of the term from Fernando Ortiz to post- and transmodernism. This application-oriented reflection on characteristics of transculturality clarifies how Transcultural Studies have developed from a critical consideration of multi- and especially intercultural processes, and which position they have taken in current theoretical debates. Their didactic relevance is demonstrated in the example of Romance Language Studies which, by definition, are a transcultural model par excellence. As shown by the case-study of Franco-Romance Studies in German-speaking areas, it appears to be overdue, in terms of curriculum, to have an extensive critical look at the world-wide transcultural project of international Francophony as well as at the paradigm of hybrid exchange processes between heterogeneous cultures.