FREN 310 | Introduction to French Short Fiction Through the Ages

This course will present students with an overview of the development of French literature from the middle ages to the 20th century, focusing on short fiction. Students will gain an understanding of the periodization and development of French literary movements in relation to historical events and changing socio-political structures. At the same time, students will develop skills in critical analysis as they approach literature written in French, often for the first time. Through reading and discussion, students will develop literary acumen, see the same work of literature from different angles and improve their use of written and spoken French in academic discourse in preparation for more advanced upper-division French courses for which they will have developed a critical and historical context. This course satisfies the gateway requirement for French and Francophone Studies literature majors.