Spring 2015
Le Jongleur de Notre-Dame 1
(Photo by: Jon Fraser '10)
Director
Cathy Yandell, the W.I. and Hulda F. Daniell Professor of French Literature, Language, and Culture, teaches a variety of courses in French and Francophone Studies at Carleton. A specialist in the French Renaissance, she is also interested in literature and literary theory, dance, yoga, politics, music, art, theater, flying trapeze, and the outdoors. She has directed programs abroad to Paris, central and southern France, Greece, and India. Having lived in Paris for over six years, she is excited to help introduce (or reintroduce) students to this spectacular city.
Theme
Site of 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. There will also be the elective opportunity to volunteer in an elementary school or a high school in a disadvantaged neighborhood on the outskirts of Paris.
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. A five-day trip to Morocco (Rabat, Casa Blanca, and Fez) will also take place during the term.
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