Fall 2007

FR 390M • NERVAL, HUGO, BAUDELAIRE, RIMBAUD

Course Description

Through close textual readings, we will gain an understanding of the respective vision, style, and aesthetic of Gérard de Nerval (1808-1855), Victor Hugo (1802-1885), Charles Baudelaire (1821-1867), and Arthur Rimbaud (1854-1891) within the cultural and artistic context of their time. The range of poetic expression evident in their work will offer an overview of the shift from the Romantic to the Symbolist and pre-modernist modes. In relative terms, the most attention will be given to Baudelaire and Rimbaud.

COURSE NUMBER MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT WHEN THE TOPICS VARY.

Grading Policy

40% One 10-page paper OR Final Exam
40% Notes critiques (short written commentaries)
20% Contributions to class discussion

Texts

READINGS:
Nerval: Les Chimères. Sylvie. Aurélia.
Hugo: Choix de poèmes (Odes et Ballades. Les Orientales. Les Contemplations. La Légende des Siècles. La Fin de Satan.
Baudelaire: Les Fleurs du Mal. Le Spleen de Paris. Choix d'essais divers (e.g., Salons, De l’essence du rire, Les Paradis artificiels). Journaux intimes.
Rimbaud: Poésies. Les Illuminations. Une Saison en enfer.

ORDERED: Nerval: Les Filles du feu, Aurélia. Gallimard, "Folio". ISBN: 070361799> Baudelaire: Oeuvres complètes. Seuil. ISBN: 2020007258
Rimbaud: Oeuvres complètes. Pochothèque/LGF. ISBN: 2253131210
Course Packet

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