French and Francophone Studies 253: La Chanson

This 2-credit course will be devoted to the study of Francophone popular song culture from the early twentieth century to the present. Artists considered will come from North America, sub-Saharan Africa, and Europe. Students will analyze not only song lyrics but also cultural norms surrounding performance, the social construction of the singer's persona, and the historical context for particular works. Assigned work will include short papers, class presentations, a curated playlist, and a final project. Two course meetings per week plus one half-hour conversation session with a French Language Assistant. Conducted in French.