Vera Geranpayeh

My research intersects poetics, identity, and critical theory. I have worked on May Ayim's 1990s poetic activism, focusing on themes of race and belonging in relation to German concepts of "Heimat" (home) and "Heimsuchung" (haunting), in tension to the M-term being the oldest Germanic designation through which white individuals constructed the Otherness of Black people. I am interested in encounters between Germanic Europe and the MENA region, tracing their impact from Medieval epics to early modern self-understandings and their role in nationalist propaganda.In my doctoral research, I examine how 19th-century poetics influence contemporary identities through queer and feminist frameworks. I am particularly interested in Heinrich Heine’s socio-political critiques from the late Romantic period and their modern echoes in German rap. My work connects historical and modern cultural productions, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between past and present.My academic journey in Germany and the US is driven by a commitment to teaching and community engagement. I integrate diverse perspectives into my courses, fostering a comprehensive understanding of Germany's cultural and historical landscape and contributing to a more inclusive approach to German Studies.