French and Francophone Studies 250: La Télé

Talk shows, soap operas, crime series, sit-coms, even the news—these types of programs are familiar to American telespectators, yet the form they take in French-language settings can be substantially different, reflecting traditions, values and current issues in the country of origin. Focusing primarily but not exclusively on France, this course will explore television as a culturally specific and significant expression of French-language cultures. We will concentrate primarily on recent content, while highlighting historical and institutional factors that have influenced current practices. Two course meetings per week plus one half-hour conversation session with a French Language Assistant. Conducted in French.