A location with a particularly rich cultural history, Paris is today 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.
French 204 or above by spring term 2020. The director reserves the right to require additional study in French before departure.
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 the major and minor in French and Francophone Studies. French 246 counts toward the Art History major (post-1800 requirement).
FREN 208: Contemporary France: Cultures, Politics, 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.
Prerequisite: French 204 or equivalent.
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 art from various periods on site, including Impressionism, Expressionism, and Surrealism. 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.
Prerequisite: French 204 or the equivalent.
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.
Prerequisite: French 204 or the equivalent.
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.
Prerequisite: French 204 or the equivalent for FREN 259;
Prerequisite: French 230 or beyond or instructor permission for FREN 359.
Instructor: Cathy Yandell
Cathy Yandell, W.I. and Hulda F. Daniell Professor of French Literature, Language, and Culture
Cathy Yandell teaches a variety of courses in French and Francophone Studies at Carleton. A specialist in the French Renaissance, she is also interested in literature from multiple traditions, cultural theory, politics, social justice, dance, yoga, music, art, film, flying trapeze, and the outdoors. She has directed programs abroad to Paris, central and southern France, Greece, and India. Having lived in Paris for eight years, she looks forward to introducing (or reintroducing) students to one of the world’s most fascinating cities.
Students will stay with carefully selected French families and discover Paris while immersing themselves in French life and language.
Program participants will engage in a six-day excursion to Morocco, plus day or overnight trips to various sites around France.
Program dates roughly correspond to the Carleton academic term. Specific dates will be communicated to program participants.
All Carleton-sponsored 10-week off-campus study programs charge the Carleton comprehensive fee, which includes instruction, room and board, group excursions, public transportation, medical and evacuation insurance, travel assistance, and most cultural events.
Students are responsible for books and supplies, passports and visas (when required), transportation to and from the program sites, and personal expenses and travel during the seminar. Students will receive a program-specific Additional Cost Estimate at the time of acceptance.
Student financial aid is applicable as on campus. See the Off-Campus Studies website for further information on billing, financial aid, and scholarships.
