France in the Headlines: Protest and Social Change since 1960

Catalog description

This class examines the history of France from the 20th to the 21st century (1960 to present) through various cultural productions, including literature, films, documentaries, newspapers, songs, and visual arts. It covers key historical moments since 1960, exploring themes such as post-colonial identities, immigration, social movements, environmental challenges, the women’s liberation movement, among others. In the second part of the semester, students will investigate current debates in France today, addressing topics such as universalism, laïcité, and Islamophobia, among others. Throughout the class, multimedia sources will help students develop a nuanced understanding of French society while enhancing their ability to interpret various media forms. This class will be taught in English, and primary sources will be in French with all translations available in English. Students majoring or minoring in French are strongly encouraged to complete readings and write assignments in French. Satisfies French and Francophone Studies major and minor requirement. Satisfies Historical Thought requirement. Satisfies Justice, Equality, and Community requirement. Prerequisites & Notes French 201 or above.