116-033 Classical and Enlightenment France

116-133 French I: Contemporary French B and 116-134 French I: Language in Context II or equivalent. European studies students wishing to enrol in this subject would normally have completed first year European studies, see Prerequisites.

Through the analysis of different literary genres and diverse philosophical texts, this subject will examine the aesthetic, political, ethical and philosophical tensions that helped shape France as a major cultural nation. It will use a contemporary methodological framework to reflect on such notions as baroque, classicism and enlightenment, and to explore the value of individual works, both in their historical context and in terms of their relevance today. Works of theatre, poetry, fiction and philosophy will be selected from a number of the following authors: Molire, Racine, Svign, La Fayette, La Rochefoucauld, Pascal, Montesquieu, Voltaire, Rousseau, Diderot. The subject will be taught in French.

• develop particular generic skills. Research: through frequent and systematic use of the library and other information sources, the definition of areas of inquiry and familiarisation with research methods; Critical thinking and analysis: through required and recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by assessing the strength of arguments; Understanding of social, political, historical and cultural contexts and international awareness/openness to the world: through the contextualisation of judgements and knowledge, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and new aspects of French and Italian culture, and by formulating arguments.

A 1-hour written test in class 25% (due in week 7), an essay of 2000 words 40% (due in week 11), a take home exam of 1200 words 35% (due during exam period).

• J Racine, Britannicus. Classiques Bordas.
• Molière, Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme. Classiques Bordas.
• Voltaire, Candide. Classiques Larousse.
• Diderot, La Religieuse. Livre de Poche.