Autofiction: Writing the Self in the 20th and 21st Century French Novel

Catalog description

The term 'autofiction' has made its appearance known in the literary sphere, popping up seemingly wherever books are written and sold. It includes some of the best-selling authors: Elena Ferrante, Rachel Cusk, Karl Ove Knausgaard, among others. But what are the origins of the term? What does 'autofiction' mean, in and of itself, and what is its relationship to literature in general? This class will examine the origins of the autofictional movement, focusing on its birth and life span in France, ranging from the late 70's with Serge Dubrovsy's Fils to the present day with the works by authors like Herve Guibert, Annie Ernaux, and Anne Garreta. Excerpts from writers who predate the invention of the term (Proust, Colette, Sarraute) will be discussed as well, in an effort to muddy the theoretical waters. This class does not accept the autofictional movement as a given. It is our task to ask what the origins of literary movements are (are they theoretical fictions?) and to inquire as to their ends (why is 'autofiction' appealing in the contemporary literary landscape?). Focus will be on 20th- and 21st-century French theory and texts. Readings and discussion will be in French.