Spring 2017

Introduction

The site of a particularly rich cultural history, Paris today is a diverse and dynamic city influenced by many distinct traditions. The Program will explore key aspects of the historical, cultural, and artistic foundations of Paris, through both study and experiential learning in the city. The role of France’s colonial legacy in contemporary Paris will also be explored, culminating in a trip to Morocco, one of the most significant sources of French immigration. The Program will make extensive use of local resources, in both Paris and Morocco. It will provide students with a unique opportunity for language immersion, cultural analysis, and personal growth. In addition to classes and excursions, students may pursue a variety of activities including sports, dance, music lessons, theater, and art classes.

Learning Goals

  • To achieve greater proficiency in both spoken and written French
  • To develop an increased cultural understanding of both France and Morocco
  • To view oneself and the world from a different perspective through family stays as well as linguistic and cultural immersion

Course of Study: 18 Credits

Students enroll in three of the four courses for a total of 18 credits. (All students enroll in French 259 or 359.) All courses count toward both tracks of the French & Francophone Studies major, the Certificate of Advanced Study in French, and the French & Francophone Studies concentration; French 254 counts toward the Art History major (post-1800 requirement). French 230 or above is required for French 359.

FREN 208: Contemporary France: Cultures, Politics, and Society (6 Credits)

This course seeks to deepen students' knowledge of contemporary French culture through a pluridisciplinary approach, using multimedia (books, newspaper and magazine articles, videos, etc.) to generate discussion. It will also promote the practice of both oral and written French through exercises, debates, and oral presentations.
Instructor: French local faculty 

FREN 254: French Art in Context (6 Credits)

Home of some of the finest and best known museums in the world, Paris has long been recognized as a center for artistic activity. Students will have the opportunity to study Impressionism, Expressionism, and Surrealism on site. In-class lectures and discussions will be complemented by guided visits to the unparalleled collections of the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, the Centre Pompidou, local art galleries, and other appropriate destinations. Special attention will be paid to the program theme.
Instructor: French local faculty 

FREN 255: Islam in France: Historical Approaches and Current Debates (6 Credits)

In this course, students will explore the historical, cultural, social, and religious traces of Islam as they have been woven over time into the modern fabric of French society. Through images drawn from film, photography, television, and museum displays, they will discover the important role this  cultural contact zone has played in the French experience. The course will take advantage of the resources of the city of Paris and will include excursions to museums as well as cultural and religious centers.
Instructor: French local faculty 

FREN 259/359: Hybrid Paris(6 Credits)

Through literature, cultural texts, and experiential learning in the city, this course will explore the development of both the “Frenchness” and the hybridity that constitute contemporary Paris. Immigrant cultures, notably North African, will also be highlighted. Plays, music, and visits to cultural sites will complement the readings.
Instructor: Éva Pósfay

Excursions

Cultural activities, speakers, excursions, and civic engagement opportunities within and around the city will supplement course work. Classes are scheduled over four days each week, allowing students ample opportunity to explore the city and its rich cultural resources. The program will take a week-long excursion to Morocco.

Faculty Director

Éva Pósfay, Professor of French, Director of French and Francophone Studies

Éva Pósfay teaches a variety of courses on French classics, Francophone Switzerland, diasporic literature, and transnationalism. She has published on French and Francophone women writers and cross-cultural studies. Born of Hungarian parents in Venezuela and a so-called "global nomad," she has directed several study abroad programs in Paris and Pau, France. Her current research focuses on bilingualism and multilingualism, Swiss Francophone identity, intercultural theory and practice, and visual pedagogy.