FRNCH-307 All Aboard! Train in French History, Lit and Culture
Inspired by the intricate French railway system, this interdisciplinary course centered on the chemin de fer both in French daily life and as an imaginary space crisscrosses multiple itineraries to explore various, some surprising, destinations. We will consider railways from a social history perspective (the Industrial Revolution; the trains of the Holocaust and of colonial France; the current reconfiguration of French geography). Our exploration of railway storytelling and contemporary issues will be based on films, literary texts, songs, and objects of material culture. Course may include mandatory field trip. Taught in French. Creative multimedia final project in French.
Proseminar (16)
Credits
1-1
Prerequisite
Prerequisite: any course above Fr 200 or consent of instructor.
Notes
In addition to the history, literature and culture surrounding the railway system, students will also explore contemporary issues: the haves and have nots of the TGV; the fate of rural train lines; the unique status of railway workers in France and, for some arts and culture considerations, the repurposing of disaffected train stations in Paris.