With over 1,100 entries written by an international group of over 150 contributors, the Encyclopedia of Contemporary German Culture brings together myriad strands of social, political and cultural life in the post-1945 German-speaking world. An inclusive treatment of the concept of culture, coverage of East, West and post-unification Germany, as well as Austria and Switzerland, and the Encyclopedia' s structure and format, all make it the first reference work of its kind. Containing longer overviews of up to 2,000 words and shorter factual entries (on topics as diverse as the Bayreuth Festival and Boris Becker, Ostpolitik and the visual arts, garden gnomes and Critical Theory), cross-referencing to other relevant articles, useful further reading suggestions and extensive indexing, this volume offers the scholar, teacher, student or non-specialist breadth and depth as well as usability. Subject areas covered include: Architecture Cultural Policy & Institutions Economy Education & Research Fashion & Design Film Food & Drink History Intellectual Life Language and National Identity Literature Mass Media & Publishing Music Performing Arts Political Life Religion Society Sport & Leisure Visual Arts Writers