Introduction à la littérature en français
The course topic differs each term, depending on the instructor.
Rimbaud dans Paris. 1978. Ernest Pignon-Ernest.
Instructor: Dr. Isabella Huberman
This course provides a general introduction to French and Francophone literatures of different periods and genres (novel, short story, autobiography, theatre, poetry, essay). We will be guided by the overall theme “(Re)lire le canon,” (Re)reading the canon. Canonical French literature and the classical forms of genres will be read alongside Francophone literatures of the “margins” and texts that blur the definitions of genres. Emphasis will be placed on methods of literary analysis with the goal of helping students to improve their abilities in close reading and interpretation, skills that form the basis of the discipline of literary studies. To that end, we will concentrate on intensive readings of excerpts of texts rather than readings of full-length works. Among the questions to be explored are: How does one analyze rhetorical devices in literary texts? How do form and content relate to the overall theme of a text? What are the conventional traits of a given genre and how are these traits subverted? This course will equip you with the tools and concepts necessary to pursue your studies of literature and will broaden your knowledge of French and Francophone literatures. Class will be conducted in French.
Participation 15 %
2 Tests 2 x 20 %
Activités d’analyse
en équipes 2 x 5%
Podcast poésie 15 %
Analyse finale 20 %
*This information is subject to change
A selection of excerpts of novels, plays, poetry and essays. All required learning materials will be available on Canvas.
Language of instruction: French
Prerequisite: One of FREN 123, FREN 302.