The course will study the representation of foreign countries and peoples through texts belonging to different genres (novel, travel literature, poem, essay). By studying the perception of the other in 19th and 20th French literature, students will acquire a broader knowledge of peoples of the world and will also analyze logics that underlie images more or less true, more or less stereotyped. Thus, the distanced otherness will lead to a reflection on identity, universality, and a dialogue between cultures.
Method of presentation:
Lecture and discussion
Required work and form of assessment:
Term paper: 25%
Mid-term: 25%
Final exam: 40%
Attendance and participation: 10%
content:
Richness and legend of the Orient: Travels to the Orient in the 19th century.
The oriental wisdom: the Far East as seen by 20th century writers.
The United-States: discovering America, from American Indians to the workers.
Africa: exploring Africa in the 20th century, between dream and nightmare.
Required readings:
Gérard de Nerval, Voyage en Orient.
André Malraux, La Condition humaine.
René de Chateaubriand, Atala.
Louis-Ferdinand Céline, Voyage au bout de la nuit.
J.M.G. Le Clézio, Onitsha.
Recommended readings:
K.G. Milwards, L’oeuvre de Pierre Loti et l’esprit fin de siècle, Paris Nizet, 1955.
French Writers And Foreign Nations: Encounters With The \"Other\" In 19Th And 20Th Century Literature
The course will study the representation of foreign countries and peoples through texts belonging to different genres (novel, travel literature, poem, essay). By studying the perception of the other in 19th and 20th French literature, students will acquire a broader knowledge of peoples of the world and will also analyze logics that underlie images more or less true, more or less stereotyped. Thus, the distanced otherness will lead to a reflection on identity, universality, and a dialogue between cultures.
Lecture and discussion