Fall 2005

FR 358 • LITERATURE AND HISTORY - W

Course Description

Literature and History This course examines how French contemporary novelists and poets remember historical events and are inspired by them. It will place the works chosen in their political and social contexts. It will explore why the authors chose these particular historical events and how they represent them in their texts. It will discuss what the authors aim to accomplish and what lessons of the past they offer. Attention to the writers' techniques will help students to improve their own. Screening of short film selections in class. Readings Assignments: Short selections (in order of reading) from:
Patrick Modiano, Voyages de noces
Marguerite Duras, Monsieur X dit ici Pierre Rabier
Marguerite Duras, Hiroshima mon amour
Patrick Chamoiseaux, Texaco
Marguerite Duras, L'Amant
Philippe Franchini, Métis
Leila Sebbar, Shérazade

Home work Readings and writing of comments on the readings
Preparation of questions for class discussion
Writing of essays (2 of 250 words; 2 of 500 words; 2 of 600 words; 1 of 800 words)
Corrections of essays Class work
Quizzes
Participation in discussion of reading
Participation in discussion of film selections COURSE NUMBER MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT WHEN THE TOPICS VARY. TAUGHT IN FRENCH

Grading Policy

Compositions 60%
Short quizzes 10%
Written comments 10%
Course participation 20%

Texts

Compact Oxford Hachette French Dictionary, , 1st ed., 1995, optional Hawkins, French Grammar and Usage, 2nd ed., 2001, optional Course packet available at University Duplicating Service GSB

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