Office Hours

Syllabus

Introduction to literary and cultural analysis through the close reading and discussion of texts united by a common theme. Taught in French.

Prereqs:  21F.304, 21F.374, or permission of instructor

Topic for Spring 2012: Childhood in French and Francophone Cultures

Childhood is a source of fascination in most Western cultures. It is both a major inspiration for artistic creation and a political ideal, which aims at protecting future generations. Which role does it play in French society and in other francophone areas? Why is the French national anthem (“La Marseillaise”) addressed to its “children”? This course will study the transformation of childhood since the 18th century and the development of sentimentality within the family. We will examine various representations of childhood in literature (e.g. Pagnol, Proust, Sarraute, Laye, Morgièvre), movies (e.g. Truffaut, Satouff), and songs (e.g. Brel, Barbara). Class to be conducted entirely in French.

Units: 3-0-9(U)

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