FREN1501

What key moments in French and Francophone culture can help us understand our world today? What are French and Francophone Studies? This course taught in English answers these questions by letting you discover the diverse cultures of France and French-speaking countries (such as Senegal, Canada or Belgium), and the ways we study them in the humanities. You will encounter texts, visual material, films, music, and historical events from various eras and learn how to make sense of them. Faculty from the French program will come and share with you what they research and why.

A portion of the semester will be devoted to one of two role-playing simulations. During these weeks, you will delve deeply into the material, researching your historical character and working with other students whose goals converge with yours to sway the opinions of your other classmates. Along the way, you will enhance your skills in public speaking and writing.

(1) The French Revolution. Where did the notion of the social contract and human rights come from? What dilemmas did the people of France face in this turbulent attempt to transition from monarchy to a new form of government?

(2) The 1889 Universal Exhibition in Paris, which was a focus of debates about art, esthetics and urbanism. Do you want to be a traditional painter, Van Gogh, an art critic, a woman patron, an anarchist, or a worker on the Eiffel Tower? How did each of these groups or individuals understand the role of art?

You can take French 1501 as a freestanding class or at the same time as a language class (FREN 1001-1004, depending on your level). The class is required for new majors and minors in French Studies, but you can take it simply to discover the fascinating cultures of French-speaking communities worldwide!

No prerequisites. All materials for French 1501 are in English, and students in all programs are welcome!

02415