Program Description

Theme: European Identities: Paris/Berlin

How do different cultures mix, and how do they express themselves? Taking Paris as a test case, we will examine how cultural identities evolve, interact, and (sometimes) conflict with one another, especially in the refashioning of what has famously been referred to as “Old Europe.” Examples from Berlin will provide a counterpoint to our investigation of the French experience.

The Program will make extensive use of local resources, both in Paris and Berlin, providing students with a unique opportunity for language immersion, cultural analysis, and personal growth. In addition to classes and excursions, students may pursue activities such as sports, dance, music lessons, etc.

Faculty Director

Scott Carpenter, Professor of French, teaches a variety of courses in French and Francophone Studies at Carleton. A specialist in nineteenth-century studies, he has also worked considerably on issues of memory and history in contemporary France. Having lived in France for several years (many of them in Paris), he looks forward to working with students again in this exciting setting.

Course of Study, 18 Credits

Students enroll in three courses for a total of 18 credits. All courses count toward the French and Francophone Studies track of the major and the Certificate of Advanced Study; French 208 and 249/349 also count toward the literature track of the French and Francophone Studies major; French 246-07 and French 249-07 (or 349-07) count toward the Concentration in French and Francophone Studies.

FRENCH 208-07: CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION (6 CREDITS)

Focusing on topics of current interest in French society, French 208-07 is designed to help students gain ease and proficiency in spoken and written French. The course will be taught and supervised by local instructors assisted by recent graduates of the Program in French as a Foreign Language at the University of Paris X. In addition to regular in-class activities, the graduate assistants will meet with students for weekly tutorials.

Instructor: French faculty

FRENCH 246-07: CITY OF WONDERS: PARIS IN THE ARTS (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 French art of the last two centuries 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 faculty

FRENCH 249-07/349-07: EUROPEAN IDENTITIES: PARIS & BERLIN (6 CREDITS)

Paris is a world capital, a crossroads of cultures, races, classes, and languages. This vibrancy is related to France's central role in the European Union, the evolution of which has produced tremendous chances within its member nations. The transformation of Europe has strained national and regional identities, and this strain can be "read" in various forms of expression, including literature, art, monuments, and public events. Studying the particular cases of Paris and Berlin - a "field trip" to the German capital is planned - students will examine the ways in which France is (re)defining itself within the context of an evolving Europe.

Instructor: Scott Carpenter

Location and Lodging

Classes will be held in the heart of the city, on the Left Bank. Students stay with carefully selected French families and discover Paris while immersing themselves in French life and language.

Visits and Excursions

Cultural activities, speakers, and excursions 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. In addition, the group will make one or two excursions outside of Paris, including several days in Berlin, Germany.

Eligibility

Students who will have sophomore, junior, or senior status in the 2009-2010 academic year are encouraged to apply. Prerequisite: French 204 or above by spring term 2010. The director reserves the right to require additional study in French before departure.

Information

For further information about the French Studies Seminar in Paris, contact the Office of Off-Campus Studies at x4332 or Professor Scott Carpenter at scarpent@carleton.edu.